Thank you, Rassie, for all the memories in the Protea colours

It does feel like the end of an era. Rassie van der Dussen, a tall, stylish batter with crisp shots, and more importantly, a proud Protea, has called time on his international career. His ODI average of over 50, is now the second best in South Africa’s history, only behind AB de Villiers. It’s a nice club to be a part of, and a nice legacy to leave behind. 

He made his international debut in a T20I against Zimbabwe in 2018 before breaking into the ODI side in 2019, where he made an instant impact with a well-compiled 93 on debut against Pakistan. He went on to become a mainstay in the format for South Africa, scoring 2657 runs in 71 matches at an average of 50.13, including six centuries and 17 fifties. In T20Is, he featured in 57 games and scored 1406 runs at a strike rate of 128.76.

He also played 18 Tests after debuting in 2019, scoring 905 runs with six half-centuries, three of them in his debut series. 

"It is with a proud heart and a profound sense of gratitude that I announce my retirement from International Cricket," van der Dussen said in a statement. "To wear the Proteas jersey is a feat that demands a level of resilience and dedication that both tests, and rewards you in the most incredible way. To have played for my country has been the greatest honour of my life. This journey has been paved with years of sacrifice, but the privilege of representing South Africa was worth every moment."

“Growing up in a household of four brothers - Adriaan, Nico, CE, and myself - the Proteas badge was always held as something sacred," van der Dussen said. "We lived and breathed the game together, and to be the one to carry our family name onto the international stage was a responsibility I was proud to embrace. I am merely a product of my environment, and of years of camaraderie, love, and pushing for greatness.

"To my wife, Lara; you have been by my side every single step of the way. You have ridden the waves of incredible highs and difficult lows with empathy, grace and strength, and you have been my biggest cheerleader, whom I could not have done this without."

Enoch Nkwe, South Africa's director of national teams and high performance, said van der Dussen's impact went beyond numbers. "Rassie's legacy in the green and gold extends beyond his on-field performances. He was a strong senior voice in the change room who helped drive team culture and standards, always leading by example."

Cricket South Africa CEO Pholetsi Moseki added: “Rassie delivered in key moments for the team and earned the respect of his teammates, opponents and fans alike. We thank him for his service to South African cricket and wish him every success in the next phase of his journey.”

Thank you Rassie, the Protea Fire indeed burnt brighter because of you!