DURBAN, South Africa — South African fast bowler Morne Morkel announced on Monday that he would retire from international cricket after the four-Test series against Australia which starts at Kingsmead on Thursday.

The tall paceman, who has played in 83 Tests, 117 One-Day Internationals and 44 Twenty20 internationals, blamed the burden of the international schedule for his decision.

Morkel, 33, has taken 294 Test wickets and his tally across all formats is 529.

Morkel said: "It was an extremely tough decision but I feel the time is right to start a new chapter."

Morkel's decision means he will not be available for the World Cup in England next year.

There were reports last year that Morkel was contemplating playing county cricket in England under the Kolpak regulation, which would make him ineligible for national selection.

Morkel's international career has spanned 12 years in which he formed a deadly new-ball partnership with Dale Steyn, who is currently sidelined with injury.

"I have a young family and a foreign wife, and the current demanding international schedule has put a lot of strain us. I have to put them first and this decision will only benefit us going forward," Morkel added.

"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. For now, all of my energy and focus is on helping the Proteas win the upcoming series against Australia."

Cricket South Africa acting chief executive Thabang Moroe praised Morkel's contribution towards South African cricket.

"On behalf of Cricket South Africa, I would like to thank Morne for the tremendous and highly valued contribution he has made to South African cricket over the past decade," said Moroe.

"He has been a regular selection for both the Test and ODI squads since 2008, having made his debut as far back as 2006. He has formed part of the golden era of fast bowlers that have made the South African Test team a champion outfit that is respected throughout the world."

Somerset's Van der Merwe extends contract

Somerset all-rounder Roelof van der Merwe has signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at the English county side until the end of the 2019 season.

The 33-year-old, who has represented South Africa and the Netherlands at international level, began his second spell with the county in 2016.

Van der Merwe averaged 70 in the domestic 50-over competition last year after kicking off the campaign with 165 not out from only 122 balls against Surrey.

"I'm thoroughly enjoying my time at Somerset and I'm really looking forward to the next two years," he said. "This is a great place to play your cricket and I genuinely feel that we could be on the brink of something special."

Somerset director of cricket Andy Hurry said: "During his time with the club Roelof has made a number of significant contributions with the bat, the ball and with his dynamic fielding. "He relishes being in the battle and he has the ability to change the momentum of a game." — AFP