HAMPSHIRE chairman Rod Bransgrove has paid his own tribute to the retiring Shaun Udal.

"Shaun has been a cornerstone of the Hampshire team for nearly two decades," said Bransgrove.

"During his long and distinguished career, he has never wavered in his total commitment to this club.

"Despite the long period between his original England selection and his Test call up only two summers ago, Shaggy' has never given anything less than 100% to his team both on and off the pitch".

I'm sure everybody connected with Hampshire Cricket, and its previous guise as Hampshire County Cricket Club, will want to thank Shaun for his outstanding contribution and wish him a long and happy retirement".

Paul Terry, Hampshire's team manager, added: "Retiring is never an easy thing to do, especially in a career so enjoyable as cricket.

"It's a recurring nightmare to get the timing just right.

"Shaggy has announced his retirement at a great time when he is still showing supporters and team mates that he can perform at the highest level.

"He has had a wonderful career spanning 20 years with Hampshire and in that time has there been a player who has given as much of his soul to a club?

"Yes, he has been a pain in the neck in the dressing room with his school boy antics but he has ensured that there has never been a dull moment.

"As someone that was there at the beginning and now at the end of his playing career, I can only endorse the tributes that will understandably come in.

"He has been a wonderful committed and successful player for Hampshire with many highs.

"These have included Lord's Finals and of course selection for England. Not bad, 4-14 in your last game for England".

Tim Tremlett, Director of Cricket, added: "I first remember coaching Shaun as a 12-year-old in mid-winter at Basingstoke Sports Centre.

"He remains as enthusiastic and mischievous today as he was back then.

"Since making his debut in 1989, Shaun has played with passion, pride and all round he has been a magnificent cricketer for Hampshire Cricket".