Gibbs reportedly mulling retirement

Controversial South African opener Herschelle Gibbs may quit international cricket after being left out of the One-day team against England but will remain available for his Indian Premier League side Deccan Chargers.

Quoting an unnamed source close to Gibbs, Afrikaans daily Beeld said Gibbs's decision had "nothing to do with the fact that he has been omitted (from the national side) for the umpteenth time."

"Although he still has to weigh up a few choices, (Gibbs) feels that he has had enough after such a long career," the source was quoted as saying.

Neither Gibbs, nor his agent Donne Commins, have commented on the report.

South African coach Mickey Arthur too has denied any knowledge of the development, remaining adamant that Gibbs was part of his plan for the 2011 World Cup in India.

Gibbs has had an eventful international career of 13 years, often at the centre of controversies ranging from match-fixing and substance abuse. However, he is still regarded as one of the best opening batsmen in the world.

But Gibbs's batting has been inconsistent in recent years, with his last One-day century coming in April this year against the Australians in Port Elizabeth.

The opener has also been dogged by scandals on and off the field. He was kicked out of the national squad last year and sent to a rehabilitation centre for alcohol abuse.