Chris Benham has departed Hampshire by mutual consent, ending a 17-year association.
Benham, 27, represented the county at Under 10 level and went on to make 48 first-class appearances following his debut in 2004.
But opportunities became scarce last season and the batsman, who boasts a career average of 27.31, is now hoping to try his luck elsewhere.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Hampshire Cricket and would like to thank everyone at the club for helping me develop as a cricketer and a person. I have been lucky enough to be part of a very successful one-day team in recent years," he told the county's official website.
"Hampshire is a great club with huge ambition and it has a group of exciting and very talented youngsters. I wish them every success in the future.
"Personally, I still have a huge desire to play cricket at the highest level and see playing in a new environment with different ideas as a very exciting prospect."
Praise
Hampshire cricket manager Giles White thanked Benham for his contribution over the years.
"As the squad has strengthened opportunities for Chris have become limited," said White.
"However, he has a good feel for the game and has never given anything but 100 percent for the Hampshire cause, and I would like to thank him for his input.
"We at Hampshire Cricket wish him well in his pursuit of a new direction for his cricket in 2011."
