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South African wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen has announced his retirement from international cricket, ending a seven-year career with the Proteas.
The announcement came via Klaasen’s social media, where he described the decision as a difficult but necessary step for the sake of his family and future.
“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,” Klaasen said in his statement.
Klaasen, who debuted in 2018, featured in 122 international matches across formats, earning praise for his aggressive batting style and reliable wicketkeeping.
He expressed gratitude towards the coaches and teammates who supported him throughout his career.
Klaasen’s international record includes 2,141 runs in 60 One Day Internationals (ODIs) at an average of 43.69, with a highest score of 174.
In T20 Internationals, he amassed 1,000 runs at a strike rate of 141.84, with a top score of 81. He retired from Test cricket in January 2024 after playing four matches in the longest format.
The wicketkeeper was a key player for South Africa in recent major tournaments, including the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and the 2025 ICC Men’s Champions Trophy.
Klaasen’s retirement marks the end of an era for South African cricket, as the team bids farewell to one of its most dynamic wicketkeeper-batters.
