South African all-rounder Wayne Parnell’s international career has effectively ended after he joined Worcestershire on a Kolpak contract.
Parnell was part of Worcestershire’s triumphant Vitality Blast campaign earlier this month and has decided to join the English county circuit permanently.
‘This is probably the toughest decision I’ve had to make in my career,’ Parnell told ESPNcricinfo.
‘Of course this wasn’t an overnight decision, it’s a very difficult decision and I am fully aware and understand the pros and cons of it. I have always enjoyed playing for my country since making my debut. I’d like to thank everybody who has supported me through thick and thin, my family, my friends.
‘Special mention must go to the Eastern Province and Warriors unions for taking a risk and giving a kid from the dusty streets of Booysen Park a chance to play this wonderful game. To all of those people who dislike me for whatever reason I thank you as well, you’ve helped make me mentally and emotionally tougher.’
Left-armer Parnell welcomed an international debut in 2009 and played six Tests, 65 ODIs and 40 T20Is. The six Tests were gathered over seven years. He hasn’t represented the Proteas, in any format, since October 2017.
‘I am still young and I have plenty to offer to any environment that I’m in. I have played more than 100 games for my country in all formats and I’ve loved every time I’ve put on the South African jersey and I’m almost certain that nothing can replace that feeling, certainly on the cricket field,’ he added.
‘The reality of life is that that goals and aspirations change all the time and it seems the Proteas have moved passed me since I’ve not really had any communications since I had my injury and then not going to India for the A tours was also another indication.
‘But I’m happy with that and I am comfortable with where I’m at and what I’m doing. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Worcestershire since joining up with them and I’m excited about my future with them.’
Fellow South African cricketers Colin Ingram, Kyle Abbott and Rilee Rossouw, among others, are also unavailable to the country due to Kolpak contracts.
