South African bowling allrounder Vernon Philander has called time on his international career with the announcement of his retirement from all forms of international cricket at the end of the Test series against England in January 2020.
Philander, who has taken more than 200 wickets in his 60 Tests so far, has increasingly had to battle injury. The 34- year-old made only six appearances in the last 18 months. He has also played in 40 ODIs, and 7 T20Is for South Africa.
Philander is seventh on the list of highest Test wicket-taker for South Africa. He was also named South African Cricketer of the Year in 2012. Philander was pretty handy with the bat too. He averages 24 with the bat 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. "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."
