After the two-match Test series against India at home. Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar is expected to announce his retirement.
At the conclusion of the Test series against India at home, Elgar will complete his 11-year international career.
Elgar’s swansong is scheduled for Newlands. Where he scored his first Test runs, and he will play his farewell Test at his home ground of the Centurion.
Elgar made a statement saying. “Being able to represent your country is the ultimate. But playing the game of cricket has always been a dream of mine.” It’s just beyond my wildest hopes that I got to do it globally for 12 years. I have had the great fortune to go on an amazing trip.
I have decided to retire from our wonderful game, therefore this Indian home series will be my last, as they say, “all good things come to an end.” A game that has greatly benefitted me. My final test will be the Cape Town one. My all-time favorite stadium on earth. It was there that I scored my first, and hopefully my final, Test run against New Zealand.”
Memorable Innings: Elgar’s Batting Prowess Unveiled
Elgar, a southpaw, debuted in Tests and ODIs in 2012, but he was most successful in the longest format. In 84 Test matches thus far, the 36-year-old has amassed 5146 runs, which includes 13 hundreds and 23 fifties.
Elgar’s century against Bangladesh in Potchefstroom in 2017 stands as one of his best innings in Test cricket; it’s his greatest score to date. He demonstrated he was the man for every situation with his 160 against India in Visakhapatnam in 2019—against players like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin.
Elgar hit 333 runs in three games to help South Africa defeat Australia 3-1 in the series at home in 2018. In the third Test at Cape Town, he made 141* off the bat as the Proteas went on to win the series 3-1.
In 2021, he was rewarded for his batting prowess by being named Test captain. Under his direction, South Africa’s 2021–2023 cycle saw them place third in the ICC World Test Championship, thanks to home series victories over West Indies and India and an away series draw in New Zealand.
I will always be grateful for the chance to represent my nation and the lessons I’ve learned along the road. It’s without a doubt the finest education I’ve ever had,” Elgar remarked.
“I want to take this chance to thank Cricket South Africa for their early assistance and for giving me the chance to represent my country. Since I was eighteen years old, I have truly been grateful for every opportunity I have had.
Leadership and Triumph: Elgar’s Impact on South African Test Cricket
To previous teammates and coaches. I will always remember all of you with tremendous affection since you helped shape me into the cricket player I am today, both on and off the field.To my fellow teammates: everyone of you is an integral part of who I am. I have so many treasured memories to share with you all. Many thanks and best wishes for the remainder of your careers to each and every one of you. Stay true to your values and continue to set an example for others. Treat both the country and yourself with the highest respect.
Finally, to all of the admirers and backers out there. You have all contributed significantly to my career. You are there for me to support me through my highs and lows. I shall be appreciative of this and cherish the wonderful memories I have of you all.”
The first Test is scheduled to start at the Centurion on Boxing Day, while the second Test is scheduled to start in Capetown on January 3.