Heinrich Klaasen has represented South Africa in 4 Test matches, 60 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 58 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is). The South African wicket-keeper batter Heinrich Klaasen surprised the entire cricket world on Monday, June 2nd, when he announced his immediate retirement from international cricket through a social media post.
Heinrich Klaasen decision came shortly after his performance with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Retiring at the age of 33, this news came as a huge shock, especially since he was considered to be at his peak in white-ball cricket.
Regarded as one of the top white-ball players globally, Heinrich Klaasen has played a vital role in South Africa’s recent successes. His departure leaves a significant gap in the team, particularly with the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaching.
Heinrich Klaasen recently showcased his talent in IPL 2025 by scoring a powerful century for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Being fit and still performing strongly, many expected him to have several good years ahead.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Klaasen shared a long message with his fans explaining his decision to retire. He said the choice was not easy but necessary for his family. He wrote:
“It is a sad day for me as I announce that I have decided to step away from international cricket. It took me a long time to decide what’s best for me and my family for the future. It was truly a very difficult decision, but also one that I have absolute peace with. From the first day, it was the biggest privilege representing my country, and it was everything that I have worked for and dreamed about as a young boy.”
Heinrich Klaasen said, “I look forward to spending more time with my family, as this decision will allow me to do so.
Heinrich Klaasen also reflected on his experience playing international cricket, expressing gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his journey. He shared: “I have formed great friendships and relationships that I will cherish for life. Representing the Proteas gave me the chance to meet amazing people who changed my life, and to them, I cannot thank enough. My path to wearing the Proteas jersey was different from most, and there were certain coaches who kept believing in me – to them, I will always be grateful.”
“To have played with the Proteas badge on my chest was, and will always be, the greatest honor of my career. I look forward to spending more time with my family, which this decision will now allow. I will always remain a dedicated Proteas supporter and want to thank everyone who supported me and my teammates throughout my career.”
| Format | Matches Played | Runs Scored | Batting Average | Centuries | Fifties | Strike Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | 60 | 2141 | 43.69 | 4 | 11 | — | — |
| T20I | — | 1000+ | — | 0 | 5 | 141+ | Strike rate over 141 |
| Test | 4 | 104 | — | 0 | 0 | — | — |