Rassie van der Dussen announces international retirement after missing out on South Africa central contract
Rassie van der Dussen has announced his retirement from international cricket, ending his ongoing series with South Africa. The decision comes after he was dropped from Cricket South Africa’s central contract list, effectively signaling the conclusion of his international chapter.
The 37-year-old last featured in the Champions Trophy against New Zealand in Lahore, where he scored 69 as South Africa fell short in chasing the target of 363. Taking to social media to confirm his decision, Van der Dussen reflected on his journey and thanked those who have supported him throughout his career.
“With a proud heart and a deep sense of gratitude I announce my retirement from international cricket. Wearing the Proteas jersey is an achievement that demands a level of resilience and dedication that both tests and rewards you in the most incredible way. Playing for my country has been the greatest honor of my life.”
“This journey has taken years of sacrifice, but the privilege of representing South Africa was worth every moment.”
He said, “To my wife Lara, you have been with me every step of the way. You have ridden the waves of incredible highs and difficult lows with empathy, grace and strength, and you have been my biggest cheerleader, without whom I would not have been able to do this.”
Rassie Van der Dussen’s career in numbers
Van der Dussen made his international debut in 2018 against Zimbabwe at the age of 29 and has represented South Africa in all three formats until 2025. Despite a relatively late start, he built a reputation as a reliable middle-order batsman, especially in white-ball cricket.
He played 18 Tests, scoring 905 runs at an average of 30.16 with six half-centuries. Although he showed flashes of solidity in the format, he was unable to cement a long-term place in the red-ball team, with his last appearance coming against Australia at the Gabba in December 2022.
Van der Dussen was at his most effective in ODI cricket. He scored 2657 runs in 71 matches at an average of 50.13, which included six centuries and 17 fifties. He was an important part of South Africa’s batting unit, often opening the innings under pressure, and featured in the ODI World Cup in 2019 and 2023. He also captained the team in one ODI in 2024.
In T20Is, he played 57 matches, scoring 1406 runs at an average of 33.47 and a strike rate of 128.75, including 10 half-centuries. His ability to balance consistency with controlled aggression made him a valuable asset in the format.
Across all formats, he scored 4,968 international runs, and made significant contributions during a transitional phase for South African cricket. He also had a brief stint in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, although he enjoyed limited success.
While his international career has ended, Van der Dussen indicated that he would continue to be involved in the game through domestic cricket and mentorship, signing off after more than seven years at the highest level.
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