Former South Africa all-rounder Johan Botha has left the Adelaide Strikers for the Sydney Sixers ahead of this year’s Big Bash League – Australia’s premier domestic Twenty20 tournament.

Botha, who joined the Strikers in 2011 and clinched 27 wickets in 20 matches, has signed a three-year contract with the Sixers.

‘We were keen to retain Johan and we put what we believed to be our best offer on the table with a two-year contract. Unfortunately Johan has decided to look elsewhere for opportunities and we wish him the best,’ said South Australia Cricket Association high performance general manager Tim Nielsen.

‘Johan’s influence with the Strikers in the BBL has been significant and we are excited about our young group who are ready to take us forward.’

The Adelaide franchise, meanwhile, have retained West Indian all-rounder Kieron Pollard.

The 32-year-old Botha represented the Proteas in five Tests, 78 ODIs and 40 T20Is between November 2005 and October 2012.