Makhaya Ntini

Bowler Makhaya Ntini retires from international cricket

Ntini was the first black cricketer to represent his country

South Africa bowler Makhaya Ntini has retired from international cricket.

Ntini, 33, made his international debut in January 1998 and appeared in 101 Tests and 173 one-day internationals.

He was the first black cricketer to represent his country and took 390 Test wickets - second on South Africa's all-time list and 11th overall.

"It has been a wonderful journey for me to represent my country," said Ntini, who will continue to play domestic cricket for the Warriors franchise.

"I have so many great memories, which I will carry with me for the rest of my life," added Ntini, who also took 266 ODI wickets.

"My career is by no means over. It just means that internationally my time has come to hang up my boots.

"Domestic cricket is thriving at the moment, and I want to be a part of the set-up, as a player, for as long as possible."

Ntini's 13-132 against West Indies in Trinidad in 2005 remains the best match analysis by a South African, while he also holds the record of best ODI figures of 6-23 against Australia at Newlands in 2006.

He is also the only player from his country to take 10 wickets in a Test at Lord's.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) plans to honour Ntini, nicknamed the Mdingi Express, at a historic Twenty20 international against India to be played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium - one of the football World Cup venues - in Durban in January.

"Makhaya is the most popular sportsman in the country, and he deserves to bow out of international cricket in fine style," said CSA chief executive Gerald Majola.

"I cannot think of a better send-off, with over 50,000 people expected at Moses Mabhida Stadium for this commemorative match."