ISLAMABAD: South Africa’s top-order batter Rassie van der Dussen has announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to his career at the highest level.
The 36-year-old, who was previously on a hybrid central contract with Cricket South Africa (CSA), had not featured for the national team for the past seven months and was not included in the 2026–27 contract list.
Van der Dussen will continue playing domestic cricket for the Lions and remain active in franchise leagues, while also dedicating time to “teaching and mentoring the next generation of South African cricketers.”
In a statement shared on Instagram, he reflected on his journey and expressed gratitude for representing his country.
“It is with a proud heart and a profound sense of gratitude that I announce my retirement from international cricket,” Dussen wrote.
Half-centuries
“To wear the Proteas jersey is a feat that demands a level of resilience and dedication that both tests, and rewards you in the most incredible way. To have played for my Country has been the greatest honour of my life,” he added.
He extended thanks to the Lions’ management, CSA coaching staff, his agent Chris Cardoso, his wife Lara, and supporters across South Africa.
Van der Dussen also encouraged aspiring cricketers to “dream big and give absolutely everything you have to achieve your dreams”, before signing off by saying, “I love South Africa, and I love cricket.”
Over his career, he represented South Africa in 18 Tests, 71 ODIs and 57 T20Is between 2018 and 2025. He retires with the second-highest ODI average in the country’s history, behind AB de Villiers.
The right-hander made a significant impact in ODI cricket, scoring six centuries and 17 fifties, including a strong start with five half-centuries in his first nine matches in 2019.
He was part of South Africa’s squad for the 2019 ODI World Cup and retained his place despite AB de Villiers offering to return for the tournament.
Although South Africa struggled in that campaign, van der Dussen stood out as one of the team’s most consistent performers, finishing as their second-highest run-scorer.
