South African all-rounder Albie Morkel has decided to call it quits from all forms of cricket. After a professional career spanning close to 20 years, he says goodbye to the game at the age of 37.
Albie Morkel had made his first-class debut way back in 1999. He made his international debut in the year 2004 when he represented South Africa in an ODI against New Zealand. The left-handed batsman went on to score 782 runs from 58 ODIs and 572 runs from 50 T20Is. The right-handed medium pacer also bagged 50 and 26 wickets in ODIs and T20Is respectively. Along with that, he played a solitary Test for the Proteas against Australia in 2009.
He made his last international appearance in a T20I against India in 2015. Albie captained his side Titans for long and led them to 3 back to back titles in T20s. He was also a prominent member of the Indian Premier League. The South African represented Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rising Pune Supergiant across 91 matches.
Albie Morkel on his retirement
The all-rounder took to Twitter to announce his retirement. He thanked Cricket South Africa and Titans for the opportunities.
That’s the end for me and what a journey it’s been! Plenty of memories good and bad, but I was blessed with a very long career. Thanks @Titans_Cricket @OfficialCSA, will enjoy the game now from the other side. pic.twitter.com/sXik0KYFbz
— Albie Morkel (@albiemorkel) January 9, 2019
“Time has run out for me on the cricket field, and I would like to announce my retirement from the game. The last 20 years of my life took me on an incredible journey, with so many awesome memories that I will cherish forever. I would like to thank Jacques Faul and everyone involved at the Titans for giving me the opportunity to live my dream,” Albie Morkel said.
“The squad is in a healthy state and I’m looking forward to seeing the progress that the younger players will make. I will forever be a big Titans fan. I want to say a big thanks to Cricket South Africa because it was a huge honor to represent my country. Thank you to my family, friends, supporters and sponsors who were there for me through thick and thin.”
“Most importantly my wife who played an unbelievable supporting role, allowing me to do what I love. Professional sport can be a ruthless space to operate in, and it’s impossible to do it without a solid support system. Thank you so much,” added Albie Morkel.
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