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South Africa's Hashim Amla retires from all forms of cricket with immediate effect
The South African had a below-par World Cup 2019, and it was expected that he would walk away from the game after the end of a dismal campaign, where the Proteas failed to qualify for the top-four.
South African batter Hashim Amla on Thursday announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Thursday.
Cricket South Africa confirmed the opener's decision to walk away from the game in a tweet.
"#BreakingNews @amlahash today called time on one of the great international careers of the modern era when he announced his retirement from all formats of international cricket. He will continue to be available for domestic cricket as well as the Mzansi Super League. #AmlaRetires," CSA tweeted.
"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," Amla said in an official statement.
"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," he added.
Amla played for over 15 years, and represented his country in 349 games across all formats. He went on to make more than 18,000 runs with 55 tons and 88 fifties in all three formats.
"It is always sad to bid farewell to one of the true legends of the game but at the same time this is rather an occasion to celebrate the richness that Hashim has brought to the game around the world both on and off the field," Cricket South Africa (CSA) Chief Executive Thabang Moroe said in an official statement.
"His humility has always been his standout quality and I cannot imagine a better role model to teach us all how to lead better lives. He has added great value not only to the Proteas but to the country at large," he added.
Amla is the only South African batsman who has a triple hundred in the Test format. He also has the highest score by a Proteas batter against England, India and Windies. He was named as the South African cricketer of the year in 2010 and 2013.
Amla played 124 Tests for his country, scoring 9282 runs at an average of over 46. He played 181 ODIs and 44 T20Is too.
