Rassie Van Der Dussen: Proteas Star Announces Immediate Retirement From International Cricket

Rassie Van Der Dussen: Proteas Star Announces Immediate Retirement From International Cricket

  • A South African cricketer has confirmed he's retiring from international cricket after spending years with the Proteas
  • The 37-year-old superstar took to his official social media page to share the news about his retirement on Thursday
  • South African cricket lovers and others took time to celebrate the cricket legend on social media after hearing the news

South African cricketer Rassie van der Dussen has announced that he's retiring from international cricket after spending close to eight years with the Proteas. The Proteas star announced on Thursday, April 2, 2026, setting social media abuzz due to his decision.

Marco Jansen, Rassie van der Dussen, ICC Champions Trophy, South Africa and England.
Marco Jansen celebrates with teammate Rassie van der Dussen during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 match between South Africa and England. Photo: Sameer Ali
Source: Getty Images

The 37-year-old, who is vocal even outside cricket, brings the curtain down on an impressive seven-year stint at the highest level, having built a reputation as one of South Africa’s most reliable top-order players.

He made his debut for the Proteas in 2018 against Zimbabwe on October 9 2018, while also captaining South Africa in a T20I series against the West Indies in 2024.

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Van der Dussen announces retirement

Van der Dussen, who recently hailed President Cyril Ramaphosa, released an official statement on his Facebook page to announce his decision to retire from international cricket.

“With immense pride and deep gratitude, I officially announce my retirement from international cricket," the South African cricketer statements reads.
“Wearing the Proteas jersey requires exceptional resilience and unwavering commitment, pushing you to your limits while rewarding you in unforgettable ways. Representing my country has been the greatest privilege of my life. This path has demanded countless sacrifices, but the honour of playing for South Africa made every second worthwhile.
“I extend my appreciation to Cricket South Africa, Enoch Nkwe, and all the coaches and team staff over the years for giving me the opportunity to represent the Proteas.
“To the supporters and the people of South Africa, thank you. There’s nothing quite like hearing ‘MaThousand’ echoed in the streets, or experiencing the electric atmosphere of walking out to bat at a packed Wanderers Stadium to the thunderous sound of Antibiotika. Those special moments and emotions will stay with me forever.”

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Fans celebrate van der Dussen

Van der Dussen was celebrated by colleagues, friends and family after the decision to call off his time with Proteas at the age of 37. The fans also joined them in celebrating the veteran SA cricketer on social media.

Rassie van der Dussen, ICC Champions.
Rassie van der Dussen pictured during a net session during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Photo: Matthew Lewis-ICC
Source: Getty Images

George Knight shared:

"A dedicated man who built a career based on sound values and integrity. It was most certainly an honour to watch him play; his presence on the field was clearly noticed, and his dedication to the team was clearly seen. Well done, Rassie, and thank you for your dedication and love of the game. May the Lord bless you as you enter a new season of your life. May your family be blessed and kept as you lead by example and as the head of your home. God bless.🙏🏻🙏🏻👍👍👍👏👏👏."

Danny Carlos Tchizondo said:

"I'm sitting here in a remote village in Tanzania and reading your message. Thank you for the memories you inspire, and you represented the game with the utmost respect. Salute Rassie, the solid, the minding your business while hitting fours through the covers."

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Rushdi Hendricks wrote:

"Congrats, Rassie. Gentleman on & off the field. 👏👏 You conducted yourself with flawless grace. Not only a good batter, but also an excellent role model. You really can hold your head up high! Respect 🤝."

Walter Slowtown commented:

"What great words True champion. Just shows your character as a person. Thank you, Rassie. We salute you. The best for your new endeavours. 🙏🙏🙏."

Sakkie Jamneck added:

"What a loss! You have served well, Rassie! Ever since that mammoth partnership with Dan Christian in the original SA20, I’ve been a massive fan. Sad to see you step down internationally, but will still root for you in all teams you play for. You will be missed in the Protea squad."

SA golfer on supporting Bafana Bafana

Briefly News also reported that South African golf star Dean Burmester shared the reason behind his decision to show support for Bafana Bafana during the LIV Golf tournament.

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On day two of the four-day competition, Burmester stepped out in the newly released Adidas away kit for both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@briefly.co.za.