Wayne Parnell has effectively called time on his international career by signing a Kolpak deal with T20 Blast champions Worcestershire.

The 29-year-old has not played for South Africa since October 2017 and was recently excluded from the squad for the Proteas’ tour to Sri Lanka. He was also not selected for the upcoming ODI series against Zimbabwe that starts on 30 September.

After helping Worcestershire to their first trophy in over 20 years on Saturday, Parnell said he had been forced to make one of the toughest decisions of his life. He told ESPNcricinfo: “This is probably the toughest decision I’ve had to make in my career. 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.

“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.”

Over the course of his international career, Parnell played six Tests, 65 ODIs and 40 T20Is. He was also the leading wicket-taker in the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy.