Cedric English has decided to retire from international cricket, with immediate effect.

The 32-year-old South Africa-born all-rounder played first-class cricket for Griqualand West at the age of 17 and played for Western Province and Boland.

He made his debut for Scotland against the MCC in 2002, when he made a century. One game later, he achieved a hat-trick against Durham. And in last year's ICC Trophy campaign to qualify for the World Cup, he won two man-of-the-match awards for his batting.

Now fully settled in Scotland, following his graduation from Napier University, Edinburgh, he has a new full-time job, and has opted to focus exclusively on his career.

"I did not come to this country to play cricket professionally," he said. "But it's been a privilege to play at international level for Scotland, and to help the national team to qualify for the World Cup.

"Last year in Ireland was a wonderful achievement, and a great experience for me. I just loved being part of Craig Wright's squad. I wish them all the best in the West Indies next year - and in the further opportunities which are now opening out for Scottish cricket, which I will follow with interest and enthusiasm."

Roddy Smith, chief executive of Cricket Scotland, said: "Cedric has been a tremendous asset to our international team, particularly in the ICC Trophy, and he will be sorely missed.

"His decision is perfectly understandable, and is a clear reflection of the pressures which constantly impinge on our players. It is very difficult indeed to develop a professional career and at the same time to dedicate yourself on a part-time basis to the sport in which you excel.

"Hopefully, we will be able to find a way in which our best young cricketers do not have to balance their priorities on a daily basis, as Cedric has had to do."