South Africa team’s preparations for the England Test series have become more emotional as their ace fast bowler Vernon Philander has announced retirement from all forms of international cricket after the England Tests, as shared by Cricket South Africa on their Twitter account.
England is scheduled to play four Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is in South Africa, starting with the first Test at Centurion from December 26, 2019. However, the focus will be now on Vernon Philander’s swansong Test series.
SA v ENG 2019-20: Joe Root concerned over illness of England's three front-line bowlers
34-year-old Philander had made his Test debut in 2011, while his ODI and T20I debuts came in 2007. He has picked 216 wickets in 60 Tests so far with the best bowling of 6/21, while he has 45 wickets in limited-overs cricket for the Proteas. He also has 1619 runs with eight fifties to his name, apart from 165 runs in 37 limited-overs matches.
Vernon said in his statement, “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 an honor and privilege to have played alongside the very best in the game. Thank you must also go to CSA, Cape Cobras, all the coaches, management, captains and teammates 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,” he added.
He was paid rich tributes by New Director of cricket Graeme Smith, who said, “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.”
(CSA Twitter inputs)
