GLAMORGAN wicket-keeper Mark Wallace has hung up his gloves after 18 years with the county, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 35-year-old, born in Abergavenny and raised in Crickehowell, has retired to take up a role with the Professional Cricketers Association, supporting players in Wales and the south west of England.

Wallace is the most successful gloveman in Glamorgan's history and captained the side between 2013 and 2015.

"I've been extremely fortunate to have been able to represent the club for so long and while I walk away with a heavy heart I'm delighted to be able to start the next chapter of my life with the PCA," said Wallace.

"I'm hugely thankful to the club for the opportunities they've given me, the supporters for enduring some of my performances and to my family and friends for their unwavering support."

Wallace made his debut in 1999 against Somerset – becoming the club's youngest 'keeper at the age of 17 years and 287 days – and was a regular in red-ball cricket from 2001.

The left-hander, an England Under-19 international, helped Glamorgan win the National League title in 2004 and scored a career-best 139 in 2009.

In 2011 he became the first wicket-keeper to score over 1,000 first-class runs in a season for the club and two years ago he passed the milestone of 10,000 and also completed a remarkable streak of 230 consecutive County Championship appearances.

"Mark Wallace has been an integral part of Glamorgan CCC for almost two decades," said chief executive Hugh Morris.

"He will be long remembered for his skill with bat and gloves, his leadership qualities, as a role model in the dressing room and as an ambassador for the club.

"Mark can look back on an outstanding professional career with great pride and it is excellent news that he will continue to contribute to the game of cricket in his new role at the PCA.

"On behalf of the club, the committee and all supporters we wish Mark and his family all the very best with this new chapter in their lives."