Hashim Amla announces retirement from international cricket

South Africa’s one of the best batsmen Hashim Amla has decided to call it quits from all the formats in international cricket. This comes as a shocking news for the fraternity as he was fairing decently in Test cricket despite struggling recently overall. South Africa managed to win Amla’s last game which was an ODI against Sri Lanka in the 2019 World Cup. He managed to score an unbeaten 80 in that game to end his tournament on a high.

Amla played 104 Tests, 181 ODIs and 44 T20 Internationals for his country during his illustrious career and scored more than 18000 runs. He was at par with Virat Kohli in the run-scoring at one stage. But unfortunately, over the last 12 months, Amla’s form tapered off and even his World Cup selection was debatable as Reeza Hendricks had to be left out.

Nevertheless, it was a career to celebrate and Hashim Amla will surely be touted as one of the greats in South African cricket ever. He ended with 28 Test and 27 ODI centuries while also managing to score 41 Test, 39 ODI and 8 T20I half-centuries.

Hashim Amla’s statement

Hashim Amla released a statement after announcing his retirement and thanked his friends, family and teammates for supporting through the thick and thin of his career. He was also thankful to the Almighty for giving him the chance to play for South Africa and was grateful to the fans for their support throughout.

“Firstly, all Glory and thanks to the Almighty for granting me this Proteas journey which has been nothing but a joy and privilege. I learnt many lessons during this incredible ride, made many friends and most importantly shared in the love of a brotherhood called #proteafire.

“I would like to thank my parents for their prayers, love and support, it is their shadow over me that enabled me to play for years under the Protea sun. Also, My family, friends and agent, my teammates and every member of the support staff throughout this incredible journey. A heartfelt thank you to every one of you!

“The fans for energizing me when times were tough, and for celebrating with me when we succeeded together. Siyabonga South Africa! And, of course, a very special thanks to the President and the Board at Cricket South Africa – not forgetting the Chief Executive, Thabang Moroe, and his administrative team. I really appreciate all the opportunities and am truly grateful,” the statement read.