Donald retires from Test cricket

South Africa's most successful fast bowler of all time, Allan Donald announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect on Monday.

Donald, 35, who pulled up with a hamstring injury while bowling during South Africa's recent defeat to Australia in Johannesburg, announced his retirement in a press statement issued by the United Cricket Board of South Africa.

"I have reached a stage where I am tired of letting myself, my team and my country down with my injuries," Donald said.

"I have decided to retire from Test cricket, but will certainly be available for one-day internationals and my goal at the moment is to play one-day international cricket for my country.

"I would like to thank everyone who has supported me throughout my Test career. It has been a privilege to represent South Africa in Test cricket," Donald said.

Donald made his Test debut for South Africa against the West Indies in Barbados in 1991-'92, playing 72 Tests and is the only South African bowler to have passed 300 Test wickets. During his career he took a total of 330 Test wickets at an average of 22.25.

Donald's retirement from the Test game was accepted with regret by UCBSA chief executive, Gerald Majola.

"Allan has been a great servant of the game and we hope he will continue to shine in one-day international cricket. We accept Allan's decision and his current contract, which expires in April, remains intact," Majola said.

Mail Cricket Editor