Mead first trialled for Surrey, but qualified for Hampshire because Surrey's batting strength was such that they were unable to offer him a contract. It is possible that Fry's Hampshire connections (he had a Training Ship "Mercury" on the River Hamble) helped bring Mead to Hampshire. During his residence qualification period Mead worked in coaching naval trainees, and might have made his first-class debut at 17 for Players of the South against the Gentleman, but was vetoed by W G Grace who objected because of his age.