JP Duminy announces retirement from test cricket with immediate effect
South African all-rounder JP Duminy announced his retirement from test cricket with immediate effect, earlier today. He said that the decision came after a long deliberation and also revealed that he had thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity of representing his country in test cricket. The left-handed batsman amassed 2103 runs in 46 test matches at an average of 32.85 since making his debut in 2008.
In a statement released by Cricket South Africa, Duminy said, "It is an experience that cannot be replaced and one I will always cherish. Test cricket has always been the pinnacle and I've been fortunate enough to experience some memorable highlights with the Proteas."
Duminy enjoyed a superb start to his test career in Australia back in 2008. In the Perth test, he scored an unbeaten fifty to help his team chase down 414 in the fourth innings. Later, in the Melbourne test, the left-hander smashed 166 as South Africa registered their first-ever series win in Australia. However, of late, his form in the longer formats had dipped.
Duminy's form had dipped in the last few months. He was under pressure to perform consistently to hold on to his spot in the squad. Even captain du Plessis admitted the pressure Duminy was facing. However, Duminy only managed 17 runs in the first two Tests against England and was subsequently released from the squad. Two months later, he announced his retirement.
In the 46 Test matches that he played in, Duminy amassed 2103 runs and claimed 42 wickets. He scored five centuries and eight half-centuries with the highest score of 166. His best bowling performance was 4/47 and he also took 38 catches in his career.
Duminy was never a good test batsman. At best, he was a good test all-rounder and all his major contributions to South African cricket are in limited-overs cricket. However, his 166 against Australia will always be remembered by fans. The glory in tests may have been short lived for Duminy but he definitely will have a role to play in the 2019 World Cup.
