South African fast bowler Morne Morkel announced 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.

33 years old Morkel has taken 294 test wickets and his tally across all formats is 529.

Morne Morkal said that it was an extremely tough decision but he 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.