Former Proteas all-rounder Albie Morkel has retired from all professional cricket with immediate effect.

Morkel captained the Durban Heat in the inaugural Mzansi Super League in South Africa late last year. He scored 57 not out in his final appearance, against the Tshwane Spartans at SuperSport Park in Centurion on 12 December 2018.

‘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,’ said the 37-year-old Titans veteran.

‘I would like to thank Jacques Faul and everyone involved at the Titans for giving me the opportunity to live my dream. 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.’

The hard-hitting left-hander played one Test, 58 ODIs and 50 T20Is between 2004 and 2015 – and represented the Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Daredevils, Rising Pune Supergiants and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.

‘I want to say a big thanks to Cricket South Africa, because it was a huge honour to represent my country. Thank you to my family, friends, supporters and sponsors who were there for me through thick and thin, and most importantly my wife who played an unbelievable supporting role, allowing me to do what I love,’ he added.

‘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.

‘Cricket has prepared me well for life after. There are some new opportunities on the horizon, and I’m looking forward to grow into those. I will be enjoying the game from the other side of the rope.’

Photo: Gallo