Alexei Kervezee to retire from Dutch Team

After representing Netherlands Cricket since the age of 13, Alexei Kervezee has decided to retire from representing Netherlands in order to focus on his role with Worcestershire CCC.

Kervezee made his debut for The Netherlands when 16 years old in an ODI against Sri Lanka on 4 July 2006 in Amstelveen, scoring 47 runs in the Dutch total of 248.

Kervezee commented "It's a decision that I haven't taken lightly and have thought long and hard about over the last few months but feel at this time in my career it is right for me in order to pursue my ultimate goal. I want clarity in my mind as to what I'm working to and for, where I want to be and what I need to do to get there.

"It's always been an honour and pleasure representing Netherlands Cricket and something I never took lightly. I owe a great deal to Dutch cricket and playing for them is something that I will forever cherish, but at this point in my career I feel I need to focus on my future at Worcestershire CCC,? said Kervezee.

Cricket Netherlands (KNCB) Chairman of Selectors Jeroen Smits said: "This is an extremely disappointing day for Dutch Cricket to be losing a player of Alexei's capabilities in a crucial World Cup Qualification year. Peter Drinnen, Richard Cox and I have spent many hours in recent times attempting to persuade Alexei against this decision. Alexei has been an outstanding player for The Netherlands, but for now it's time for us to move on and to pursue our stated aim of qualification for the 2015 World Cup."