Former South African captain Dean Elgar has officially announced his retirement from international cricket after the upcoming two-match Test series against India, marking the end of his illustrious 12-year career. The left-handed opener, who played 84 Tests and eight One-Day Internationals for South Africa, has been a consistent performer in the longer format.

Dean Elgar assumed the role of full-time Test captain following Quinton de Kock’s resignation and led the team against the West Indies in June 2021. South Africa’s red-ball coach, Shukri Conrad, expressed confidence in the Proteas maintaining their proud Test record against India, with Temba Bavuma eyeing the World Test Championship 2023-25.

In a released statement, Elgar expressed gratitude for the 12-year opportunity to represent his country and announced that the home series against India would be his last in South African colors. He aims to conclude his test career on a positive note in Cape Town, describing it as his favorite stadium where he scored his first Test run against New Zealand.

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Elgar reflected on his cricket journey, emphasizing the incredible experience and learning opportunities the game provided. Having scored over 5000 runs at an average of 37.28 since his Test debut in 2012, Elgar contributed significantly to South Africa’s Test success, including guiding the team to third place in the ICC World Test Championship and a series triumph over India in January 2022.

Notably, Elgar excelled in the 4-Day Domestic Series this season, amassing 402 runs in six innings for the Titans at an average of 80.40. As the Proteas gear up for the two-match Test series starting on December 26, Elgar’s retirement announcement adds a sentimental touch to his final appearances for the national team.