Steyn retires ‘from format I love’ to prolong career

South Africa
Dale Steyn South Africa PA

South Africa paceman Dale Steyn has announced his decision to retire from Test cricket with immediate effect.

The 36-year-old made his Test debut in 2004 against England and he went on to make 93 appearances in the red-ball format.

Steyn has been struggling with a shoulder problem for the last few months and the injury cost him a place at the World Cup.

He has decided to quit Test cricket after claiming 439 wickets but Steyn still has a contract in white-ball cricket.

Although he remains available for the Proteas in both ODI and T20 cricket, Steyn admits he will always miss Test cricket.

In a statement, he said: “Today I walk away from a format of the game I love so much. In my opinion Test cricket is the best version of this game.

“It tests you mentally, physically, emotionally. It’s terrible to consider never playing another Test again but what’s more terrifying is the thought of never playing again at all. So I will be focusing on ODIs and T20s for the rest of my career to maximise my full potential and ensure my longevity in this sport.”

He added: “I’d like to thank everyone in cricket, no one specific, because everyone has been a part of my journey. And I look forward to continuing to play for the Proteas in the shorter formats. Thank you.”

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