Benkenstein leaves Hampshire

Benkenstein led the club to two NatWest t20 Blast Finals Days and four-day promotion during his tenure.

He said: ‘I have loved every minute of my time at Hampshire.

‘I’d like to thank everyone at the club, from the players to the coaching and office staff and of course the supporters, for making me feel so welcome.

‘It is with genuine regret that I leave at this time but the extended periods of separation from my family responsibilities in South Africa have become increasingly more difficult for me and my wife and they need to be my priority at this time.

‘I wish the team every success for the remainder of the season and beyond and I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to Giles White and the management team for the honourable way in which they have handled this situation.’

Director of Cricket, White, said: ‘We are naturally disappointed to be losing Dale at this stage of the season.

‘However, we have been aware of the difficulties he has encountered and understand his decision to step down.

‘He has worked tirelessly over the last two-and-a-half seasons and we would like to thank him for all of his hard work and wish him well for the future.’

Until further notice, Benkenstein’s first XI coaching responsibilities will be absorbed by the other members of the professional coaching team.