Leicestershire have announced that former Kent batsman Martin van Jaarsveld has retired from county cricket and will not be joining them for the 2012 season.

The former Kent player had signed for the Friends Life t20 champions in Septmeber but has since admitted he does not want to take up the contract.

The 37-year-old revealed he was struggling to cope with the stresses and strains of playing, which was hindering him on the pitch.

Van Jaarsveld said: “I’m desperately sad not to be able to take up the challenge with Leicestershire.

“I’ve always set the highest of standards but at the age of 37 I’m beginning to show signs of fatigue, which has affected my performance on the field.

“I’ve struggled to make significant contributions in four-day cricket with the bat of late and have even put down slip catches that I would previously have eaten for breakfast. Quite simply, at the end of this South African season I need a break to recharge the batteries.

“There’s no doubt that the years of flying backwards and forwards between South Africa and England have taken their toll, so for my own benefit and peace of mind, and for the sake of my young family, my wife and I have decided to settle permanently in South Africa.

“I apologise to Leicestershire and to the fans but I’d rather be honest than turn up and not be able to perform at my best.”

Leicestershire chief executive Mike Siddall said: “We are all disappointed that Martin will not be joining us but we respect what must have been a very difficult decision and wish him well for the future.”