Sean Ervine thanks Hampshire after retiring

The Hampshire all-rounder made the decision which he described as the biggest of his life.

His Hampshire debut was 13 years ago and he featured in 486 matches but now the 35-year-old has elected to call time on his career with immediate effect.

Ervine, known for his excellent ability with both bat and ball, has accumulated 15,400 runs across all formats including 20 centuries, while also claiming 373 wickets with the ball.

He said: '˜It was the biggest decision of my life.

'˜After 14 years playing county cricket I have decided to hang up my number seven shirt.

'˜I'd like to say a huge thank you to Rod and Hampshire for giving me the opportunity to advance my career, after having to retire from international cricket with Zimbabwe prematurely.

'˜To the fans who have supported me all these years, I salute you. I'm extremely proud of what I've achieved, and I feel honoured that I got to achieve it at Hampshire.

'˜I'd finally like to thank my family for their phenomenal sacrifices and support over the years, of which my dream couldn't be possible.'

The left-hander has been a crucial component to the side for more than a decade, particularly in white-ball cricket where he's contributed to six List A and T20 trophies, highlighted no more so than his match-winning century against Warwickshire in 2005 which saw Hampshire claim the C&G Trophy.

He was also part of the County Championship division two title-winning side in 2014.

Director of cricket, Giles White praised Ervine and said he will be a big loss to the team.

He said: '˜Sean has been an outstanding player for the club over many years and will be greatly missed, not only on the pitch but also in the dressing room.

'˜He made an immediate impact upon arrival at Hampshire and has gone on to play an important role in one of the most successful periods in the club's history, with seven major trophies won across all formats.

'˜We would like to thank Sean for all the great service he has given to the club and wish him and his family all the very best for the future.'

Hampshire return to County Championship action at Worcestershire on Tuesday (10.30am).