Star South Africa player announces retirement from Test cricket

The 32-year-old wicketkeeper batter Heinrich Klaasen declared his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, January 8, delivering an emotional statement on social media. Klaasen's choice followed his omission from the recent 2-match Test series against India. The series ended in a 1-1 draw with both the teams winning one game each.

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A prominent middle-order batter in ODI cricket, Heinrich Klaasen has participated in just 4 Test matches spanning 4 years. His most recent involvement in Test whites for South Africa occurred when he took on the wicketkeeping duties in a home Test against the West Indies in March 2023. Considering the action pack white balls years, this decision can be termed relevant given that he does not have many years left in his cricketing career.

"After a few sleepless nights wondering if I am making the right decision, I have decided to Retire from RED Ball cricket. It’s a difficult decision that I have made because it is by far my favourite format of the game," Klaasen said in a statement on social media.

It was the most precious Cap I have ever been handed: Klaasen

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The star wicketkeeper batter is an experienced first-class player, featuring in 85 matches and accumulating 5347 runs at an impressive average of 46. His career includes 12 centuries and 24 half-centuries. Despite being regarded as a superior batter compared to many wicketkeepers in South Africa, Klaasen was overlooked in favour of Kyle Verreynne for the home series against India.

"The battles that I faced on and off the field have made me the cricketer I am today. It has been a great journey and I am glad I could have represented my Country. In my opinion, it was the most precious Cap I have ever been handed. Thanks to everyone who has played a part in my Red Ball Career and Shaped me into the Cricketer I am today. For now, a new challenge awaits and we looking forward to it," he added.