Pollock calls it quits

Shaun Pollock has been an integral part of South Africa's team make-up © Getty Images

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South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock has announced he will retire from international cricket after the third Test against West Indies in Durban.

The 34-year-old revealed at stumps on day two of the match against the Windies that he feels now is the right time to stand down from national team duty.

The on-going Test is his 108th for the Proteas while he has also appeared in 298 one-day internationals.

He has taken 420 Test wickets and claimed a further 387 in ODIs.

Although his batting tailed off later in his career, his current average stands at just over 32 in Tests and is more than 26 in the one-day game.

“This will be my last Test match,” he confirmed in a press conference.

“At this point in time I'm looking forward to finishing things off from a cricket perspective.

“Only time will tell what my involvement with South Africa will be. I'll be moving from a committed South Africa player to a committed South Africa supporter.”

Pollock has claimed 420 Test wickets in his lengthy South Africa career © Getty Images

Pollock had been overlooked by South Africa selectors before being brought back for the third Test against West Indies.

“I'd like to thank Cricket South Africa for affording me the opportunity to represent my country for the past 12 years,” he said.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the honour and privilege of wearing the Protea badge and take with me some remarkable memories having played against some great players.

“I realise I have been blessed by God and feel I have nurtured my talents to the best of my abilities.”

Pollock went on to thank CSA staff, sponsors and players for the part they had played in making his career “an unforgettable experience”.

He continued: “I made the decision at the start of the season that this would be my last series.

“I set myself a personal goal when I reached 100 Tests that I would better my career average in subsequent Tests. I managed to do that.

“I was obviously disappointed not to feature in the two Tests so far but couldn’t think of a better place to finish than Durban. I have peace with my decision.”

And Pollock is confident he is leaving the South Africa set-up in fine fettle.

“I believe the timing is right,” he said. “It is pleasing to see the South Africa bowling talent waiting in the wings. I’m happy to go on my own terms in regard to performances.”