Hampshire Cricket Chairman Rod Bransgrove has paid tribute to the retiring Dimi Mascarenhas.

The former England all-rounder has today announced his retirement from all forms of the game for the county at the end of the current season.

"Dimi has established himself as a true Hampshire icon and will be impossible to replace," said Bransgrove.

"His uncomplicated style and positive manner have made him a huge influence in and around the dressing room and his passion and commitment to the cause ensured that he would always be a crowd favourite.

“Whilst we will all miss him, on both a personal and professional level, we must thank him for his amazing contribution to this cub and wish him, his wife, Nadine and son Lenny every success and happiness in the future.”

Hampshire manager Giles White added; “When Dimi shared his intentions with his team-mates (after last Sunday's t20 defeat against Kent) the changing room was a particularly sombre place.

"He has been an integral part of the club since he arrived in 1996 and will be remembered as one of the county’s most charismatic and influential players.

"His engaging and infectious personality will leave as much of a void off the pitch as on it. "