NEW signing Ali Orr insists he "can't wait to get going" as Hampshire begin their quest for a County Championship title with a long trip to Durham on Friday.

Orr, who joined from Sussex in November, will be looking to play an important role in the future of the Utilita Bowl side as they look to challenge on three fronts again this campaign.

Hampshire made it to T20 finals day for a record tenth time last season, while they were also beaten finalists in the one-day cup and finished third in the County Championship.

The 22 year old is excited for the season to begin and has been impressed with what has welcomed him since he arrived at the club.

He said: "I’m really happy to be here. The place itself is breathtaking. Just walking in the gates, seeing the club, the pitch, and everything, the people have been so welcoming.

"It’s very exciting (to join Hampshire) with the winning mentality, the will to win, and almost the desire they have. 

"Hampshire came in the top three in all formats last year. It’s just about putting the last bit in and winning something. It’s so exciting to be here and be a part of it."

The former Sussex man has already been in the runs, hitting 53 in the pre-season meeting with Worcestershire last week.

Orr insisted that "building relationships" with his new teammates is key and is pleased he has been able to work on that in the winter and during the pre-season fixtures.

He continued: "Pre-season is a great chance to practice and just to get a bit of confidence, trying to learn to bat with Fletch (Fletcha Middleton), Gubbo (Nick Gubbins), people like that.

"To build relationships and see what they’re like (is important). It’s about getting to know what makes people tick and getting the best out of people.

"I’m looking forward (to the first game). I’ll have to pack my jumpers! I can’t wait to get going and hopefully, the first block of games will be a good challenge and we can get a good start."

The opening batsman is also keen to learn from the likes of captain James Vince and experienced all-rounder Liam Dawson.

He admits it was "daunting" at first but is now really eager to learn from the pair as he goes about having a successful career for Hampshire.

"(They) are players I’ve looked up to growing up. Not only as a player but as a fan," he concluded.

"To be in a changing room with them is daunting at the start, but since speaking to them a little bit more, I’m looking forward to seeing how they go about things and learning from them."