FORMER Bournemouth all-rounder Dimitri Mascarenhas is honoured' to be taking over the captaincy of Hampshire following Shane Warne's decision to retire from first-class cricket.

The Australian spinner is to focus on business interests and family life and Hampshire have confirmed Mascarenhas will take over the role.

The 30-year-old England all-rounder has been a regular part of the Hampshire side since he made his debut against Glamorgan in September 1996 after helping Bournemouth win the Southern League title in the same year.

"I hope to bring great success to the club and Hampshire supporters," Mascarenhas said.

"It is a huge honour to be made captain of such a prestigious club, following in the footsteps of the likes of Colin Ingleby-Mackenzie, Mark Nicholas and the great Shane Warne."

Rose Bowl plc chairman Rod Bransgrove said: "In Dimitri Mascarenhas we have a mature cricketer with great standing amongst his peers.

"As captain he will have the opportunity to capitalise upon his natural flair for leadership and to call upon his immense pool of experience with both Hampshire and England.

"He will be a popular and capable successor to Shane Warne and I wish him the very best of luck."

Hampshire team manager Paul Terry added: "I'm delighted for Dimi, with his well-deserved appointment as captain of Hampshire.

"I see him as the perfect man to keep taking the club forward with his enthusiasm and respect within the dressing room."