‘It is a sad day’ as Proteas wicketkeeper-batter retires from international cricket with immediate effect
Proteas wicketkeeper-batsman Heinrich Klaasen retired from international cricket this week.
Klaasen retired from Test cricket in January 2024 and, earlier this year, was not given a Cricket South Africa contract.
“It is a sad day for me as I announce that I have decided to step away from international cricket. It took me a long time to decide what’s best for me and my family for the future. It was truly a very difficult decision but also one that I have absolute peace with,” said Klaasen.
“From the first day, it was the biggest privilege representing my country and it was everything that I have worked for and dreamed about as a young boy.
“I have made great friendships and relationships that I will treasure for life. Playing for the Proteas gave me the opportunity to meet great people that changed my life, and to those people I can’t say thank you enough.
“My road to wearing the Proteas shirt was different than most and there were certain coaches in my career that kept believing in me – to them I will always be grateful.
“To have played with the Proteas badge on my chest was and will always be the biggest honour in my career. I look forward to spending more time with my family as this decision will allow me to do so. I will always be a big Proteas supporter and would like to thank everyone that supported me and my team-mates during my career.”
What CSA said about Heinrich Klaasen retirement
Klaasen played four Tests, 60 ODIs and 58 T20Is from 2018 to 2025. He hit four centuries in international cricket.
Cricket South Africa director of national teams and high performance Enoch Nkwe added: Heinrich has been a true match-winner for South Africa. He was a player capable of changing the course of a game in a matter of overs. His commitment and impact in the white-ball formats have been immense, and we thank him for his outstanding service to South African cricket.
“He has been transparent with Cricket South Africa throughout the past few months, and we fully respect his decision to retire from international cricket. We wish him continued success in the next chapter of his journey.”
Klaasen was with the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the Indian Premier League recently. Later this month, he will be with the Seattle Orcas in Major League Cricket in the United States of America.
CSA chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki concluded: “Heinrich has been a fantastic ambassador for South African cricket, both on and off the field. His performances in the green and gold have brought joy to many South Africans, and his legacy will undoubtedly inspire the next generation.
“We thank him for his contributions over the years and wish him everything of the best for the future.”
Meanwhile, Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell retired from ODI cricket this week as well.