JOHANNESBURG, Sept 16: South Africa all-rounder JP Duminy has decided to retire from Test and first-class cricket with immediate effect but will remain available for the limited-overs.
Duminy today announced his decision in a statement, released by Cricket South Africa. �In the years ahead, my focus will be placed on attaining limited-overs cricket success for South Africa and the Cape Cobras, along with attending to my young family, who has been incredibly supportive and understanding.
�I have thoroughly enjoyed the privilege and opportunity to represent my country in 46 Tests and the Cape Cobras in 108 first-class matches overs the past 16 years. It is an experience that cannot be replaced and one I will always cherish,� Duminy stated.
Duminy has been under fire in recent months for his poor performances. He was dropped from the Test team after the first match at Lord�s in the four-match series against England in July.
The 33-year-old returned home ahead of the third Test. He also opted out of the opening round of first-class fixtures.
�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 Cape Cobras,� Duminy, who scored six centuries at an average of 32.8 and has taken 42 wickets in his 46 Tests, said.
�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.
He expressed hope that CSA and local franchise Cape Cobras would continue to use his talents.
�I will however not be lost to first-class cricket; I have offered my services to the 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,� Duminy, who made his debut for South Africa in Australia in 2008, said. � PTI
