South Australia seamer Joe Mennie, who played one Test, has announced his retirement from state cricket so he can return to his family in the UK.
Mennie, 32, missed the entire 2020-21 Australian season due to the pandemic travel restrictions while he was in the UK and though he had come back for this pre-season with the Redbacks he has opted to call time.
"I am extremely grateful towards the Redbacks for backing me across the journey, in particular through a difficult period across last season and into this season," he said. "To have two young children is an incredible joy, and I need to be as close to them as possible.
"They are, and will always be, the most important part of my life, and I can't wait to get back to the UK and see them again. My journey with SACA has been a long and enjoyable one, but the time has come for me to move into the next phase of my life, and I am excited to do that with those closest to me."
Mennie has taken 297 first-class wickets, 256 of them in the Sheffield Shield, putting him fifth for South Australia in the competition behind Clarrie Grimmett, Ashley Mallett, Chadd Sayers and Tim May.
His one Test came against South Africa at Hobart in 2016 after which he became one of the players dropped when Australia were bowled out for 85 and thrashed by an innings. He had previously played two ODIs against South Africa.
Mennie's biggest haul in a domestic season came in 2015-16 when he claimed 51 wickets at 21.21 and he had another standout campaign in 2018-19 with 37 wickets at 19.72.
"When looking at the numbers, it is clear that Joe is one of the greatest bowlers the Redbacks have seen; but Joe's impact on this great state goes well beyond the numbers," South Australia head coach Jason Gillespie said. "He is a true professional, always willing to put the team first, and someone that we will greatly miss.
"Not only has Joe represented South Australia, he also has a prized baggy green cap resting beside his baggy red, and that is something that he will be able to treasure forever. Something that he earned through dedication, hard-work, commitment and passion.
"We thank Joe for every delivery he bowled as a Redback and his willingness to get stuck into the task at hand every day. We wish him and his loved ones well. He will always be welcome at Adelaide Oval."
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