Dane van Niekerk, a former captain of South Africa’s national team, has ended his illustrious international career. From 2009 until 2021, Van Niekerk served as South Africa’s ambassador. The 29-year-old made some significant contributions while participating in one Test, 107 ODIs, and 86 T20 Internationals for his nation. She took one wicket in Test matches, 138 in ODIs, and 65 in T20 Internationals. She contributed well with the bat as well, amassing 22 runs in Tests, 2175 in ODIs, and 1877 in the shorter format.
Dane van Niekerk retires from international cricket
In 2021, Van Niekerk made her last international appearance. The previous captain’s absence from their team for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023 was significant. Van Niekerk hinted to the choice in his Instagram story. In a tweet on Saturday, van Niekerk said, “You have to understand that certain chapters in our life have to end without closures. “There’s no use attempting to mend something that’s supposed to be broken and losing yourself in the process.”
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Van Niekerk was not selected in the Proteas’ 15-player T20 World Cup team because he did not meet the fitness standard specified by Cricket South Africa. The Proteas Women’s team reached the final, and Sune Luus, who had taken over management of the squad in van Niekerk’s absence, was appointed the captain. Van Niekerk announced her retirement in a statement that said, “I regretfully declare that I will no longer play for the international cricket team.
“It has been a wonderful honor to serve as president and to represent my nation. I consider myself tremendously fortunate to have guided the group throughout these crucial years. To a sure, the women’s game is in a promising position, and I’m looking forward to seeing this lovely game, which I like, develop. “I cherish the wonderful memories I have from my career and want to express my gratitude to Cricket South Africa and all other stakeholders for their support.
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“The road is often emotional, unpleasant, and lonely, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’m appreciative of all this game has given me.” She will continue to play franchise cricket, as she presently represents the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Women’s Premier League’s debut season.