Vernon Philander to retire after England Test series

Proteas allrounder Vernon Philander will call time on his Test career after the series against England this summer.

Philander has played 97 matches across all three international formats, taking a combined 261 wickets and scoring 1 784 runs.

The Ravensmead wrecker debuted in memorable fashion in a Test match against Australia at his home ground of Newlands. Philander took a record-breaking 51 wickets in his first seven Test matches which earned him the South African Cricketer of the Year accolade at the 2012 Cricket South Africa annual awards.

Philander made the following statement via Cricket South Africa:

“I would like to hereby announce that I will be retiring from international cricket at the conclusion of the Test series against England. I feel that it is the appropriate time to conclude what has been an amazing journey.

“I want to give thanks to my Heavenly Father for blessing me with the opportunity to represent my country for the last 12 years. It has been a honour and privilege to have played alongside the very best in the game as well as being part of the best test team for a number of years. 

“Thank you must also go to CSA, the Cape Cobras, all the coaches, management, captains and team mates and the very special fans from all over the world for your love and support.

“I would like to say a special thanks to my wife, family and friends for your loyalty and support on this journey which has obviously had its ups and downs. And to my number one fan since day one – Mom, thank you so much. 

“I would like to express my gratitude to all the sponsors of the game of cricket in South Africa as well as my own amazing sponsors who have become like family over the years. 

“My entire focus and energy at this time is to help the Proteas beat England which I am really looking forward to. Looking forward to seeing you all there.”

First Test preview: South Africa vs England

Smith lauds retiring Philander

Cricket South Africa Director of Cricket, Graeme Smith, lauded the impact that Philander has had on the Proteas set-up and South African cricket as a whole.

“Vernon has been an outstanding performer in the time that he has represented his country, especially in the Test format. He has made a huge impact for the Proteas and has been at the frontline with the ball for most of his time in the set-up. He has given his best in every appearance and I think that how he has turned himself into an all-rounder has been particularly pleasing to watch.

“One of the many things that have stood out for me with Vern is his character, his determination and the way that he has always been up for a fight and a challenge has shown the heart of the man. He has really done himself and his family proud and I hope he can finish his final series for South Africa with the same character and flair that has become synonymous with him.

“I wish him all the best for his future endeavours and I’m certain that he will continue to make an impact on the game we all love in one way or another with future generations,” he concluded.