South Africa left-arm spinner Tabraiz Shamsi has opted out of national contract but says he will remain available for international cricket whenever needed. Cricket South Africa announced the development via social media quoting the spinner who cited flexibility to play league cricket and looking after his family as the reasons behind his decision.
“I have decided to opt out of my central contract in order to be more flexible during the domestic season, allowing me to explore all opportunities available and look after my family in the best way possible,” Shamsi said in a statement shared by CSA on Thursday.
“This will not impact my ability or motivation to play for the Proteas in any way and I will always be available to play for my country whenever I am needed. It has always been my dream to bring the World Cup home to South Africa, and no franchise league will ever be more important than playing for my country,” he added.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Proteas Men’s spinner Tabraiz Shamsi have today jointly announced that the 34-year-old has decided to opt out of his national contract, effective immediately.The move will allow Shamsi, who has played 51 One-Day Internationals and 70 T20… pic.twitter.com/Bm7VAUbOKQ
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 3, 2024
The 34-year-old thanked the management for their support and advise.
“The Titans are also fully supportive of my decision, and I will be a part of the Titans squad whenever I am available. I would like to thank Enoch Nkwe, Rob Walter and Dr Jacques Faul for their advice, support and open communication through this process,” Shamsi said.
Shamsi is the latest to join the trend of cricketers refusing national contracts with the likes of New Zealand stars including Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Finn Allen opting out of their central contracts for the 2024-25 season earlier.
CSA Director of Cricket Enoch Nkwe said the board is happy that Shamsi has affirmed his commitment towards representing South Africa despite the decision.
“Shamo is a key member of our white-ball squads, and while we respect his decision, we are pleased that he remains committed to representing South Africa. We sincerely appreciate his honesty and openness on the matter, which is integral and what we want from our players,” Nkwe said.
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