Hampshire left-arm seamer James Tomlinson has called time on his professional career with what has been described as the "greatest retirement statement in the history of English cricket."

The 34-year-old, the 2008 County Championship Division One leading wicket-taker with 67, has ended a 14-year career that saw him snare 419 scalps in all formats since making his Hampshire debut in 2002.

Tomlinson announced the news in a statement on Hampshire's official website, where he likens himself to an 'old dog with half a leg missing and an ear hanging off' as well as thanking opposing batsmen, slip fielders and the Dukes cricket ball for contributing to his success.

It read: "I remember years ago watching a nature documentary that followed a pack of wild dogs on a hunt.

"At the front of the pack there were the young and keen dogs who couldn't wait to get stuck in, then in the middle were the experienced, healthy dogs who knew what they were doing and held the pack together.

"But I will never forget the image of one old dog at the back of the pack trying to keep up. He had half a leg missing and an ear hanging off from what must have been years of previous battles.

"When he finally arrived at the scene all that was left were scraps... Although I was once both the young dog at the front and the healthy dog in the middle I feel now is the right time to head back to the den.

"I now have the opportunity to do just that and look after all the young dogs coming through. A job I already love and cherish."

Tomlinson goes on to add: "It's been a privilege to play first-class cricket for Hampshire and I would like to thank...

"My brothers, Hugh and Ralph, and Wasim Akram. All the coaches and captains that have picked me. The physios and fitness coaches who have kept me going.

"The Hampshire members and the rest of my family for their constant support. My bowling partners who showed me what was required for first-class cricket. The slip cordon and the Dukes ball.

"However I would most like to thank the opposition batters who somehow for over a decade missed the straight ones and nicked the half volleys... to you all I will be forever grateful!"

The statement has received plenty of publicity from cricketers past and present on social media.

Former England spinner Graeme Swann was quick to react to Tomlinson's announcement.

England internationals James Vince and Liam Dawson also paid tribute to their former Hampshire teammate, as did Chris Woakes.

"What a pleasure to have played alongside and shared a dressing room with this guy for the past 8 years. LEGEND," Vince said.

Dawson said: "Congrats to james Tomlinson on his career.been a pleasure to have played with you for all those years."

Warwickshire all-rounder Woakes said: "Typical Tommo! Legend of a bloke! Good luck fella, hope it goes well!"

Left-armer Tomlinson took 380 first-class wicket for Hampshire at 31.61, including a career-best 8-64 in May 2008 against Somerset at Taunton, where he also took 7-85 in August 2010.

The last of his 12 five-wicket hauls in first-class cricket was his 6-48 against Glamorgan at Cardiff two years ago, which helped Hampshire clinch the County Championship division two title.

He also worked hard on his batting, his 936 runs at 10.88 including a top score of 51 in a 115-run tenth-wicket stand with David Balcombe against Gloucestershire at The Ageas Bowl in 2014.

Tomlinson took 14 wickets at a respectable 34.5 in Hampshire's first six Championship matches of this season but is now focusing on his coaching career.