T20 Blast winners Worcestershire sign Parnell to Kolpak deal

By Adam Ellis

Wayne Parnell has ended his international career with South Africa to sign a three-year Kolpak deal with Worcestershire.

The left-arm seamer admitted the decision had been the ‘toughest’ of his career but that he was looking forward to continuing his cricket at the T20 Blast winners.

Parnell took 14 wickets during the Blast campaign and claimed figures of 1-32 as the Rapids beat Sussex by 20 runs in the final.

Knowing he has put himself in the shadows of selection for the Proteas when his contract comes to an end in 2021, the 29-year-old reflected on the decision to move to New Road.

“This is probably the toughest decision I’ve had to make in my career,” Parnell, who featured in six Tests, 65 ODIs and 40 Twenty20 Internationals, 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 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.”