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On this day in 2014, Graeme Smith ends his career in South Africa

South Africa captain Graeme Smith announced his retirement from international cricket on this day in 2014.

The then 33-year-old opening batsman ended his international career after playing 347 games for his country.

Smith broke the news to his teammates after play on the third day of their final Test match against Australia in Cape Town, a game South Africa lost by 245 runs.

Graeme Smith at the goal arch

Graeme Smith at the crease (Anthony Devlin/PA)

The surprising decision came three months after Jacques Kallis also announced his resignation.

Smith made his first-class debut for his country at the age of 21 and went on to score 37 centuries, 27 in Tests and 10 in one-day internationals.

A recurring ankle injury had bothered Smith throughout his career and after struggling with his form, he spoke about what led to his decision to retire.

He said: “This was the hardest decision I have ever had to make in my life. It's a decision I've been thinking about since my ankle surgery last April.

“I have a young family to think about and I felt retiring in Newlands would be the best way to end this as I have called this place home since I was 18.

“I have always been someone who left everything on the field for my team and my country.

“I feel very honored and proud to have had the privilege of guiding so many wonderful players and being part of the Proteas culture to what it is today. It’s a culture that every player can and is incredibly proud of.”

Smith was due to continue playing for Surrey but decided not to complete his three-year contract in 2015 following knee surgery.

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