Dean Elgar, the experienced South African Test opener, has announced his retirement from international cricket following the upcoming Test series against India. This decision marks the end of a notable 12-year career for the 36-year-old.
Elgar will play his final matches in the two-Test series against India, beginning at Centurion, his home ground, from December 26-30, and concluding at Newlands in Cape Town from January 3-7. Newlands holds special significance for Elgar as it’s where he scored his first Test runs.
During his career, Elgar represented South Africa in 84 Tests and eight ODIs. Since his debut against Australia in 2012, he has scored over 5,000 runs at an average of 37.28, including 13 centuries. His highest score, 199, came against Bangladesh in 2017.
Elgar’s resilience and skill with the bat led to him being appointed Test captain from May 2021 to January 2023. Under his leadership, South Africa secured notable victories, including a 2-1 series win over India at home in January 2022, placing them third in the ICC World Test Championship.
Reflecting on his career, Elgar expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to play for his country, describing it as a dream come true and a journey beyond his wildest dreams. He acknowledged the end of his international career will be emotional, particularly as it concludes in Cape Town, a venue he deeply cherishes.
Elgar thanked his family for their unwavering support and his partner for her significant role in his life. He also expressed his appreciation for the learning experiences and growth he gained through cricket.
With a Test record that places him as South Africa’s eighth-highest run-scorer, Elgar’s retirement is a significant moment for South African cricket. He was reportedly informed that he is not part of the long-term plans of red-ball coach Shukri Conrad and is linked with a move to Essex as an overseas player for the 2024 season.
South Africa will miss Elgar’s experience in their two-Test series in New Zealand, as he does not have an SA20 deal and could have been a leading figure in a squad without several key players.
Enoch Nkwe, CSA Director of Cricket, praised Elgar for his “old-school” approach to cricket, highlighting his tenacity and leadership, especially as captain.
Elgar’s journey in international cricket is marked by resilience and dedication, making him a respected figure in the game. His retirement brings an end to a career filled with notable achievements and memorable performances.
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