Vernon Philander to retire from international cricket after England Tests

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Vernon Philander to retire from international cricket after England Tests

South Africa pacer has so far played 60 Tests, 30 ODIs and seven T20Is. © BCCI

South African bowling allrounder Vernon Philander has announced that he will retire from international cricket following the Test series against England at home. Philander has so far played 97 international games across formats.

The 34-year-old made his debut in ODI cricket in 2007 but went on to play only 30 games in the format for South Africa, with his most recent appearance coming four years ago. In T20Is, Philander represented his country only seven times. He was more known for his exploits in Test cricket where he burst onto the scene in extraordinary fashion, picking up a five-wicket haul in the second innings in Cape Town where Australia collapsed for just 47.

He became the joint second-fastest to 50 Test wickets and was also one of the fastest to 100 Test wickets, reaching the landmark in his 19th appearance. He is also the seventh highest Test wicket-taker for South Africa with 216 scalps and once topped the rankings for bowlers with 912 points - the most by a South African. He was part of the side that was ranked number one in Test Cricket and was also named South African Cricketer of the Year in 2012. Philander was also more than capable with the bat often providing balance to the side post Jacques Kallis's retirement. He averages 24 with the willow having registered eight fifties.

"I would like to hereby announce that I will be retiring from international cricket at the conclusion of the Test series against England," Philander said. "It has been an honour and privilege to have played alongside the very best in the game as well as being part of the best Test team for a number of years. I feel that it is the appropriate time to conclude what has been an amazing journey. Thank you must also go to CSA, the Cape Cobras, all the coaches, management, captains and team mates and the very special fans from all over the world for your love and support.

"I would like to say a special thanks to my wife, family and friends for your loyalty and support on this journey which has obviously had its ups and downs. And to my number one fan since day one - Mom, thank you so much. I would like to express my gratitude to all the sponsors of the game of cricket in South Africa as well as my own amazing sponsors who have become like family over the years. My entire focus and energy at this time is to help the Proteas beat England which I am really looking forward to. Looking forward to seeing you all there."

Cricket South Africa Director of Cricket Graeme Smith, who captained Philander in his debut Test, heaped praise on the veteran and commended him for his ability to transform into an allrounder. "Vernon has been an outstanding performer in the time that he has represented his country, especially in the Test format," Smith said. "He has made a huge impact for the Proteas and has been at the frontline with the ball for most of his time in the set-up. He has given his best in every appearance and I think that how he has turned himself into an all-rounder has been particularly pleasing to watch.

"One of the many things that have stood out for me with Vern is his character, his determination and the way that he has always been up for a fight and a challenge has shown the heart of the man. He has really done himself and his family proud and I hope he can finish his final series for South Africa with the same character and flair that has become synonymous with him."