Jimmy Cook Photo Mike Atkelsky

Hampshire Cricket first team coach Jimmy Cook has had his contract terminated with immediate effect.

The decision was taken by the board following a run of bad results that has seen the team plummet into the relegation zone in the Frizzell County Championship, and out of promotion contention in the Norwich Union League.

Cook, who was in the last year of a three-year contract, came in today to say goodbye to the players and wished them well. He will attend a press conference this afternoon at 2:30pm at The Rose Bowl.

Hampshire Director of Cricket, Tim Tremlett, said the decision was taken with regret, but it seemed a change of direction was needed.

"Jimmy Cook was a very conscientious coach who worked very hard with the players," he said.

Tremlett himself will take charge of first-team affairs until the end of the season.

Speaking at the press conference, Jimmy Cook told the assembled that he was called into the office and met Tim Tremlett and Chairman Rod Bransgrove, and was told of the board's decision this morning.

"I have no regrets, and have had three wonderful years with Hampshire," said Cook, "I am disapointed that I could not finish the season, but I walk away with my head held high."

"I told the board", he continued, "that I would be seeking another county club should there be a vacancy, for which they wished me well, but this winter I am looking after Gauteng 'B' in South Africa."

© Hampshire Cricket