Kaizer Chiefs attacker Khama Billiat has decided to call time on his international career with Zimbabwe.
The 31-year-old former Ajax Cape Town and Mamelodi Sundowns star was unable to help steer his country to the 2022 World Cup.
Zimbabwe ended bottom of Group G, having only picked up one point in their draw with South Africa.
Billiat has spent over a decade playing for the Brave Warriors but officially announced his retirement on Monday evening.
A release from the player read: “It was all a dream. When I was young, I always dreamt of representing the country, playing for the national team. The dream which seemed far-fetched for a young Khama in Mufakose came when I least expected it.
“The first day I donned the Warriors badge, I vowed to enjoy myself and always lift the country’s spirits. Scoring a goal at the Africa Cup of Nations finals is one moment I still relive in my mind even up to date.
“It is one of the special moments I have experienced wearing the coveted yellow jersey. The feeling of scoring in a packed stadium for your nation is inexplicable.
“I have met so many teammates, coached at the national team and I appreciate every relationship I have built along the way. By playing for the Warriors, I have improved immensely as a player [and] it is an opportunity I will forever cherish.
“However, every story no matter how beautiful has an ending. This is probably the heaviest decision I have ever had to take in my life, but it is a decision I make with a patriotic heart.
“Like those who had to pave way for our generation of Warriors stars to emerge, I have decided to retire from international football. I believe it is now time for me to pave way for new talent to blossom and serve the country in the same way that I did, or even better.
“I will forever be indebted to those who took chance on me and moulded me into the international player I grew to become. Thank you, Zimbabwe for supporting me and my teammates, for showing love with each outing. God bless you.”
