South Africa batter announces shock Test retirement

Jan. 8 (ICC) - Heinrich Klaasen retires from Test cricket, but will continue to be available for white-ball formats

Heinrich Klaasen, the big-hitting South Africa batter, announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday (8 January).

Klaasen, a prolific performer for South Africa in the limited-overs format, played four Tests over his career. He debuted against India in Ranchi in 2019, and last featured against West Indies in 2023.

The 'keeper-batter scored 104 runs at an average of 13 from his four games. His highest score was 35 against Australia in Sydney.

The batter said he was retiring from his favourite format, but will continue to be available for selection in the limited-overs game.

"After a few sleepless nights wondering if I am making the right decision, I have decided to retire from red-ball cricket," he said in a statement.

"It's a difficult decision that I have made because it is by far my favourite format of the game. 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. My baggy Test cap is the most precious cap I have ever been handed."

This is the second big retirement news in the South Africa camp following opener Dean Elgar's retirement after the two-game Test series against India.