Star Rajasthan Royals (RR) player announces shocking retirement during IPL 2026

The former player of the Rajasthan Royals (RR) from the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen, has made a shocking decision to retire from international cricket for South Africa. The former captain ended with a strong record in the ODI format, with an average of more than 50.

Rassie was part of the Royals’ set-up in the IPL during the 2022 season. He featured in three clashes and returned with a horrible campaign of 22 runs in three innings at a strike rate of 91.66 at an average of only 11.

Rassie van der Dussen retires from international cricket

Van der Dussen has put up a letter on social media where he looked back at his emotional journey and how he came to the position over the years. He called it a great honour of his life.

‘It’s with a proud heart and a profound sense of gratitude that I announce my retirement from international cricket. To wear the Proteas jersey is a feat that demands a level of resilience and dedication that both tests and rewards you in the most incredible way. To have played for my Country has been the greatest honour of my life.” The former SA batter wrote.

“Growing up in a household of four brothers- Adriaan, Nico, CE, and myself- the Proteas badge was always held as something sacred. I am merely a product of my environment and of years of camaraderie, love, and pushing for greatness. Thank you to Cricket South Africa, Enoch Nkwe, and all the Proteas coaches and managers throughout the years for affording me the platform to wear the Proteas jersey.” Van der Dussen addressed.

The Lions batter advised the young generation of the SA cricket team to continue dreaming big and be part of the Rainbow Nation in the future.

See Also: RCB captain Rajat Patidar picks best IPL captain during IPL 2026

“While my time in a Proteas shirt has come to an end, my journey isn’t over. I will continue to play for my beloved Lions, and I am committed to giving back to this beautiful game by teaching and mentoring the next generation of South African cricketers. I love South Africa, and I love cricket.” The veteran shed light.

Rassie van der Dussen ends strong international career

The right-handed batter ended with 2657 runs in 65 innings of the 50-over format for South Africa at 50.13 and a strike rate of 87.02, with the help of 17 fifties and six centuries at the best score of 134 runs. In the T20Is, he nailed 1406 runs at a strike rate of 128.75, with 10 half-centuries. 

His Test career was a short one, to just 18 games, as he claimed only 905 runs at 30.16 with six fifties at the best score of 98 runs. However, he hopes to bag more runs in the domestic circuit.

Fans’ reaction to van der Dussen’s international retirement

Here is how the fans have reacted to Rassie van der Dussen’s shocking international retirement-