South Africa [Images] fast bowler Andre Nel [Images] announced his retirement from international cricket on Wednesday.

He played in 36 Tests, taking 123 wickets at an average of 31.86, and 79 one-day internationals where he captured 106 wickets at an average of 27.68.

Nel has signed a three-year deal with English county side Surrey, the team said on its website (www.surreycricket.com).

The 31-year-old had been out of favour with South Africa's cricket selectors in recent times and last represented the Proteas on the tour of England [Images] last August, playing in The Oval Test match.

"Playing for my country for the last eight years was a dream come true for me," Nel said in a statement.

"I would like to thank my captain, Graeme Smith [Images], and my coaches, Mickey Arthur and Vinnie Barnes, and all my Proteas' team mates for their support and guidance.

"To the fans who have supported me, you have made playing at the highest level something very special for me. I am sorry I did not have the chance to say farewell from the field.

"Last, but not least, a special thanks to my two biggest mentors, Ray Jennings and Shaun Pollock [Images]. Without your advice and influence I would not have made it as far as I did," added Nel, whose best Test figures of six for 32 came against the West Indies [Images] in 2005.

In a statement, Cricket South Africa (CSA) CEO Gerald Majola described Nel as a "good servant to South African cricket," while national coach Arthur said he was "a very passionate player who always gave 110 percent for his country."