Former South Africa international and Hobart Hurricanes spinner Johan Botha has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket effective immediately.
Botha, 36, made the surprise announcement following Hobart’s loss to the Sydney Sixers in the BBL at the SCG on Wednesday night.
According to a statement released by the Hurricanes post-match, Botha cited wear and tear on his body and sheer physical fatigue behind his sudden retirement.
It is a surprise given Botha is known as a fitness fanatic and has been partaking in ultra-distance running in recent years around his cricket commitments.
The decision comes as the Hurricanes sit on top of the BBL ladder as arguably the team to beat for the title despite last night’s loss.
Botha has been the Hurricanes most economical bowler this season taking eight wickets at an economy rate of 7.44 bowling both in and outside the Powerplay. He has been very influential in the field taking six catches and producing a stunning direct hit run out against the Melbourne Renegades.
Botha finished his international career with South Africa in 2012 after five Tests, 78 ODIs and 40 T20Is across eight years. He captained South Africa in 21 matches across ODI and T20I cricket for 16 victories between 2008 and 2012.
He moved to Australia to play for South Australia, captained the Redbacks in Australian domestic cricket and became an Australian citizen in 2016. He also played for the Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Sixers in the BBL before moving to the Hurricanes this season.
Source: ESPN Crickinfo