Michael Newell and Jason Gallian will take charge of first-team affairs for the remainder of the 2002 season.

A statement from the club read: "The club wishes to thank Clive for his service to the club both as a player and as cricket manager and wishes him and his family every success and happiness in the future."

After a disappointing seventh place in the County Championship Division Two last season, Nottinghamshire's fortunes have scarcely improved this term and they lie well clear of the promotion places in sixth. On Wednesday, a comprehensive exit from the C&G Trophy at the hands of Worcestershire worsened matters, and with the club winless from five games in the Norwich Union League so far this season, the writing was arguably on the wall for Rice.

In a first-class career spanning four decades, Rice established himself as one of the game's leading all-rounders, particularly during his time at Transvaal and Nottinghamshire.

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