Persistent injuries force Zondeki to retire

South African fast bowler Monde Zondeki has decided to retire from all forms of cricket following persistent back-injury problems. He was advised that even a major back surgery wouldn't be enough to help him get back to play competitive cricket. Zondeki, who is one of the five black cricketers to have represented South Africa in Tests, played six Tests, 13 ODIs and one T20I.

"The prognosis by his doctors is that Monde has multiple level degenerative changes in his lumbar spine and that it is highly unlikely that his back would stand up to sustained fast bowling," Andre Odendaal, the chief executive of Cobras, said.

Zondeki last played an international match in 2008 and has remained out of action since October 2012. "It's been a good innings for me, though at times frustrating because of the injuries, and I look forward to remaining involved and giving back to the game in future," Zondeki said. "I owe the different provinces I have played for and my team mates over the years a special word of thanks."