Morne Morkel to retire after series against Australia

Johannesburg, February 26: South African seamer Morne Morkel announced on Monday (February 26) that he will retire from all forms of international cricket after the home series against Australia, starting from March 1.

The 33-year-old confirmed his decision at a media conference in Durban, soon after the Proteas landed in the coastal city.

Family comes first," Morkel said. "After discussing it with my family we decided it was time to start another chapter," he said.

#CSAnews @mornemorkel65 to retire from international cricket after Australia series https://t.co/frtYF3kJhn pic.twitter.com/IVmUSbfD1I

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) February 26, 2018

Detailing his decision, Morkel said: "I have a young family and a foreign wife so I believe this is best time to do this. Out of respect to Cricket South Africa it was important for us to make this announcement now."

"I have loved every minute that I have played in the Proteas jersey, and I am incredibly grateful to my team mates, 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. For now, all of my energy and focus is on helping the Proteas win the upcoming series against Australia," said Morkel.

Morkel has taken 294 wickets at 28.08 from 83 Tests.

If he takes six wickets against the Aussies during the upcoming four-match series, he'll become the fifth South African bowler to take 300 Test wickets after Shaun Pollock, Dale Steyn, Makhaya Ntini and Allan Donald.