Duminy calls time on Test career
JP Duminy announced his retirement from Tests and first-class cricket with immediate effect on Saturday.
Duminy last played in the first Test against England at Lord’s in July this year. He contributed 17 runs with the bat in two innings as South Africa lost the match by 211 runs. He was dropped for the second match and was subsequently released from the squad for the last two Tests.
In a statement issued by Cricket South Africa on his behalf, Duminy said that he was privileged to have represented his country and domestic side in the longer format of the game.
“After long and careful deliberation, I have decided to retire from first-class and Test match cricket with immediate effect,” said Duminy. “I have thoroughly enjoyed the privilege and opportunity to represent my country in 46 Tests and the WSB Cape Cobras in 108 first-class matches over the past 16 years. It is an experience that cannot be replaced and one I will always cherish.”
Duminy maintained that Test cricket is the ultimate form and he has been fortunate to have some fond memories.
“Test cricket has always been the pinnacle and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some memorable highlights with the Proteas and also in first-class matches with the WSB Cape Cobras. In recent years I have been privileged to be a senior member and custodian of a special team environment and culture which has made me very proud."
He added that he will now be focused on limited-overs cricket, along with taking care of his young family. He also offered his services as a mentor to his domestic side Cape Cobras in order to help the youngsters coming through the domestic system.
“In the years ahead, my focus will be placed on attaining limited-overs cricket success for South Africa and the WSB Cape Cobras, along with attending to my young family, who have been incredibly supportive and understanding.
“I will however not be lost to first-class cricket; I have offered my services to the WSB Cape Cobras and the coaching staff as a mentor/consultant and will be involved as they see fit. There are many talented youngsters coming through our domestic system and I would love to help where I can. I’ve had the privilege of working with the squad in this role over the last two weeks and I have thoroughly enjoyed it,” said the South African batsman.
In a career spanning 46 Tests, Duminy scored 2103 runs at an average of 32.85, including six centuries and eight fifties. In 108 first-class games, he managed 6774 runs, averaging 46.08 with 20 centuries.
A handy customer with the ball, his off-spin brought him 42 wickets in Tests, with a best of 4 for 47 against New Zealand in Wellington in March this year.