Dane van Niekerk: Former South Africa captain retires from international cricket aged 29 after Women's T20 World Cup omission

Former South Africa captain Dane van Niekerk has retired from international cricket at 29, having been left out of the squad for last month's Women's T20 World Cup due to fitness concerns.

Van Niekerk calls time on her career after playing 197 times for the national sides in all formats.

"It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from international cricket," she said.

"I look back on my career fondly and have made incredible memories and want to thank Cricket South Africa and all other stakeholders for your support.

"Often the journey can be lonely, painful, and emotional, but would not change it for anything. I'm grateful for what this game has given me."

The all-rounder's omission from South Africa's squad for the Women's T20 World Cup on home soil came after failing to meet fitness standards.

Van Niekerk was unable to complete a 2km run in the minimum time required by Cricket South Africa.