Hampshire first team coach Dale Benkenstein has announced his retirement from playing all forms of cricket

The 40-year-old, who enjoyed a hugely successful playing career spanning 21 years, made 23 one-day international appearances for South Africa.

The all-rounder plied his trade for Natal in South African domestic cricket and made his debut in English county cricket for Durham in April 2005.

Benkenstein was quickly made Durham captain ahead of the 2006 season before leading the club to Friends Provident Trophy glory and a maiden LV= County Championship title in consecutive seasons.

After going on to score over 9,000 First-Class runs for Durham, the South-African became the club’s all-time highest runs-scorer.

“I would like to thank my father for all the hours he spent teaching and coaching the game with me when I was younger," Benkenstein said.

"And to the many inspirational coaches that helped me mould my game - Graham Ford, Phil Russell, Geoff Cook, Bob Woolmer and my school coach at Michaelhouse, Andy Cook.

“I am fortunate to be with Hampshire and I am looking forward to the challenges that the first division will throw at us next year.

"It's been an amazing 21 years and I am looking forward to this new chapter in my life.”

The South-African has enjoyed an impressive start to his coaching career at the Ageas Bowl, leading Hampshire to the LV= County Championship Division Two title and a record fifth consecutive T20 Finals Day in his first season.