DURBAN - Proteas fast bowler Morne Morkel will retire from international cricket at the conclusion of the Test series against Australia, he confirmed on Monday at Kingsmead in Durban.
Morkel, 33, has played in 83 Test matches for the Proteas, and currently sits on 294 Test scalps.
“It was an extremely tough decision, but I feel the time is right to start a new chapter. I have a young family and a foreign wife, and the current demanding international schedule has put a lot of strain us,” an emotional Morkel explained.
Morne Morkel speaks about the reasons why he has decided to retire from international cricket. Video: Lungani Zama
“I have loved every minute that I have played in the Proteas jersey, and I am incredibly grateful to my teammates, Cricket South Africa, and my family and friends for the support over the years. I still feel there is a lot of cricket left in me, and I am excited for what lies ahead,” he added.
Morkel explained that he had not signed any deal yet, and he would only explore his options at the conclusion of the four-Test series.
VIDEO: @mornemorkel65 announcing that he will retire from international cricket at the end of the #Proteas Test series against Australia | By @whamzam17 @IOL @TheMercurySA @DailyNewsSA #SAvAUS #ProteaFire #MorneMorkel pic.twitter.com/ywXp1bq1zj
— IOL Sport (@IOLsport) February 26, 2018
“For now, all of my energy and focus is on helping the Proteas win the upcoming series against Australia.”
The first Test between South Africa and Australia starts on Thursday at Kingsmead, Durban.