Dale Benkenstein leaves Hampshire helm

The South African cited family reasons as he negotiated an immediate exit from the Ageas Bowl.

Benkenstein spent two-and-a-half years in the post.

During that period he saw Hampshire to the NatWest T20 Blast Finals Day on two occasions and led them to promotion from County Championship division two.

The former Durham opening batsman said: ‘I have loved every minute of my time at Hampshire.

‘I would 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 I leave at this time.

‘But the extended periods of separation from my family responsibilities in South Africa have become increasingly 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.’

White, Hampshire’s director of cricket, added: ‘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 and wish him well for the future.’