Hashim Amla announces retirement from international cricket
What's the story
One of the finest South African cricketers, Hashim Amla, on Thursday, announced his retirement from international cricket. However, he has assured that he would continue to play cricket at the domestic level, along with playing the Mzansi Super League 2019. His last outing for South Africa was the ICC World Cup 2019, where they were ousted in the league stage. Here's more.
Amazing journey
Amla thanks all for an amazing journey
Announcing his retirement in a statement, Amla thanked the almighty for his incredible journey with the Proteas, which has been joyful. He also recalled learning a lot of important lessons in life, but most importantly, the friends he made and the brotherhood of #proteafire. He also thanked his parent and his family members for their prayers, love, and support.
Quote
Amla gives special thanks to CSA and its president
"And, of course, a very special thanks to the President and the Board at Cricket South Africa - not forgetting the Chief Executive, Mr. Thabang Moroe, and his administrative team. I really appreciate all the opportunities and am truly grateful. Love and peace," concluded Amla.
Prolific career
Amla calls time on a prolific international career
Reflecting back on his career, it has been a prolific 15-year journey. Having made his debut for South Africa in Tests in 2004, he played 124 Tests and scored 9,282 runs, with 28 centuries and a top score of an unbeaten 311. He was the first South African to score a Test triple ton, while he also finished as their second-highest Test run-scorer.
ODI career
He had an equally sound ODI career
He made his ODI and T20I debut in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Playing 181 matches, he has scored 8,113 runs at an average of 49.5, including 27 centuries and 39 half-centuries. Interestingly, he was also the fastest batsman to score 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, 5,000, 6,000 and 7,000 runs in ODIs. Also, out of his 27 centuries, 24 resulted in victories.
Authors take
Proteas will find it difficult to fill in Amla's shoes
As the cricketing fraternity bids adieu to one of the most exquisite cricketers of the modern-day, South Africa have indeed suffered a setback. While they have tons of other talented players, ready to provide their valuable services to South Africa, the author believes there would never be someone like Amla. Moreover, it would certainly be a struggle for them to fill in his shoes.