Craig White steps down as Hampshire coach

Craig White, the former England allrounder, has left his position as Hampshire's head coach after six years at the club. White's decision was prompted by a desire to spend more time with his family.

The 48-year-old has been in the role of head coach for the last two seasons, having taken over after Dale Benkenstein's departure in 2016, and saw Hampshire lift the Royal London Cup this year. He previously worked as assistant coach and bowling specialist, having joined in 2012.

"I've had a fantastic six years at Hampshire and I'm proud of what we've been able to achieve as a group in that time," White said. "Whilst it's certainly been a tough decision and one that hasn't been made lightly, spending long periods of time away from my family has become more and more difficult and I feel that now is the right time to return to be with them on a more permanent basis.

"I'd like to thank everyone at the club for their support throughout the last six years, from the players to the coaching staff, members and supporters, and I wish them the very best for the future."

White, who played in 30 Tests and 51 ODIs for England, previously coached at Yorkshire, the club where he spent his entire playing career before retirement in 2008.

Hampshire's director of cricket, Giles White, said: "Craig has been an integral part of the club since joining us in 2012, firstly as an Assistant Coach and then as Head Coach, and his dedication in that time has been outstanding.

"We understand his decision to step down and have been aware of the difficulties of being away from his family. On behalf of the club I'd like to thank Craig for all the hard work and incredible contributions during his time here, he will be missed on both a personal and professional level. We wish him and his family well for the future."