The hard-hitting left-hand batter arrived at Sophia Gardens in 2015, quickly becoming a leading part of the team and a fan favourite.

He then played little Championship cricket for a five-year spell because of knee problems and T20 franchise commitments around the world.

Ingram featured in an impressive range of tournaments in Australia, India, Pakistan, the West Indies and the Middle East, as well as his native South Africa and the UK’s Hundred competition, for Oval Invincibles.

Ingram, who returned to longer-form cricket in recent years after a successful knee operation, described cricket as his “art”.

“I was fascinated by the game from a young age, and in particular batting,” he said in a social media post announcing his retirement.

“At times, when it flows everything slows down and it feels like the most natural, instinctual thing I’ve ever done.

“Like my form of art and the bat my paint brush and it’s exhilarating.”

This season he scored centuries against Yorkshire and Warwickshire in the Championship and played a leading role in the home win over Surrey with 80 and 61 not out, but made only three limited-overs appearances.

He could return for a final farewell alongside fellow retiring stalwart Chris Cooke, 40, in the closing Championship match against Essex.

Ingram has an amazing county record of 5645 runs in first-class cricket averaging 47, plus 2630 runs at an average of 62 in one-day matches, and 3431 at 32 in T20 games.

He also took 67 wickets bowling leg-spin, mainly in limited-overs matches, and filled in as an occasional wicket-keeper.

On his future plans the South African said:

“As one chapter closes the next opens beyond the boundary as I begin my coaching career.

“My art is complete but I hope to influence the game positively and inspire players to be the best they can while enjoying their journeys.”

Director of cricket Wallace said: “Colin Ingram is a Glamorgan legend. His performances, his leadership, and his character have had a lasting impact on this club.

“He has been central to our progress over the last 11 years, and his influence will continue through his new coaching role.

“We thank him for everything he has given to Glamorgan and look forward to seeing him shape the future of our playing group.”