Former South Africa batsman Ashwell Prince retires from cricket

Former South Africa batsman Ashwell Prince has announced he will retire from all forms of cricket at the end of the season.

The 38-year-old, currently in his second spell at Lancashire, began his career in 1995 with Eastern Province before enjoying spells with Western Province, Cape Cobras, Nottinghamshire and Warriors. 

Prince made his international debut for South Africa in 2002 and went on to represent his country 119 times, hitting 11 Test centuries. 

He initially joined Lancashire in 2009, but left just a year later. Prince returned in 2012 and played a major role in the Red Rose's promotion back to Division One this season, scoring over 2,000 runs. 

"I've come to the decision where I'm going to retire from all cricket at the end of the season. I wanted to come back and get the side back up to Division One and that's been achieved," he told the county's official website. 

"Not only that, but we've won the NatWest T20 Blast which was a bonus. The whole squad have been excellent, I've absolutely loved my time at Lancashire, but there comes a point where family becomes more important".

Prince scored over 18,000 runs in 286 first-class games, including 45 centuries and 89 fifties at an average of 44.

Lancashire head coach and cricket director Ashley Giles paid tribute to Prince, who remained at Old Trafford for a final year after initially claiming he intended to call time at the end of 2014 season.

"Ashwell has been a great player throughout his career and has served Lancashire well during his spells with the club," he said.

"Not only have his performances been exceptional but his experience has proved to be valuable for his team-mates within the dressing room.

"On behalf of everybody associated with Lancashire County Cricket Club, I would like to wish Ashwell all the best for his future."