HAMPSHIRE legend Sean Ervine has announced his retirement from the game.

The all-rounder, who gave Hampshire wonderful service for 13 years before being dropped earlier this season, made the announcement a fortnight after being loaned to second-division Derbyshire.

Ervine, 35, was a key Hampshire player for more than a decade after inspiring the county to their first trophy for 13 years in 2005, his first season at the Rose Bowl, with back-to-back centuries in the semi-final and final of the C & G Trophy.

But after being loaned to Derbyshire last month, he revealed his decision today - after a six-wicket County Championship defeat against Kent at Derby in which he made 25 and 22.

Derbyshire captain Billy Godleman said: "Sean shared with the group today that he's had a long hard think about his career and he's decided to retire as of today from the game.

"Although he's only been with us for a couple of games, we've all played against him for many years and he's been a fantastic performer and most importantly a really good solid cricket man and one of the good guys in professional cricket."