With the increase of T20 leagues around the world, players are getting more opportunities to perform and earn. However, most cricket boards restrict their central contracted players from participating in multiple leagues, and for players, the only way remains to be a free agent is to take International retirement. CSK-bound all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius also takes this decision on Monday.
CSK’s Dwaine Pretorius ends his career for South Africa
Dwaine Pretorius who played his last international match in October 2022, ends his 7-year-long career for South Africa after playing 27 ODIs, 30 T20Is and 3 Test games. The CSA board announces the news in a release. The 33-year-old cricketer calls it the toughest decision of his life. Also, he mentioned that now his focus will be showcasing his best in T20 league cricket.
“A few days ago, I made one of the toughest decisions of my cricketing career. I have decided to retire from all forms of international cricket. Growing up, my only goal in life was to play for the Proteas. I didn’t know how it was going to happen, but God gave me talent and a serious will to succeed. The rest was in his hands, ” said Pretorius.
“I am shifting my focus to T20 and other shorter formats for the rest of my career. Being a free agent will help me achieve the goal of being the best short-format player I can be. By doing this, I will be able to have a better balance in my career and family life.I would like to thank everyone who played a big role in my career,” the cricketer further added.
He also thanked former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis for backing him and giving him the first chance to play for the national side in 2016. Pretorius ended his international career with a record of best bowling figures for South Africa in T20Is. He did this against Pakistan in 2021 when he scaled 5 wickets giving just 21 runs.
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What the future holds for Pretorius?
In SA20 2023, Pretorius is committed to play for Durban Super Giants who bought him for around 2 crore rupees. While he will be back in yellow colors in April as CSK has retained him for IPL 2023 season. Interestingly, his IPL auction price (50 lakh) is less than his SA20 price (2 crore).
The 33-year old is also signed up with The Hundred team Welsh Fire and Caribbean Premier League team St. Kitts & Nevis Patriots.