Archive · 26 Aug 2026
Former South Africa Captain Dean Elgar Announces Professional Cricket Retirement
Dean Elgar is a cricketer from South Africa.
He has decided to stop playing professional cricket.
Before fully retiring, he will play one last game for Essex.
That game is expected near the end of the county season.
Elgar had already announced his retirement during the 2023–24 season.
He was South Africa’s captain in his final Test because Temba Bavuma was injured.
Elgar said he is 39 years old.
He also said he wants to spend more time with his partner and children.
He described his cricket career as a great journey.
Dean Elgar has announced his retirement from professional cricket.
He will play his final match for Essex toward the end of the county season.
Elgar had previously announced his retirement during the 2023–24 season.
He captained South Africa in his last Test after Temba Bavuma was injured.
Elgar said he wants to focus on his partner and young family at home.
- Who
- Former South Africa captain Dean Elgar.
- What
- He announced his retirement from professional cricket and will play a final game for Essex.
- When
- His final game is expected toward the end of the county season; he had announced retirement during the 2023–24 season.
- Where
- His final match will be for Essex.
- Why
- Elgar said he wants to be present for his partner and children and is not getting younger at 39.
- Player
- Dean Elgar
- Former team
- South Africa
- Final club
- Essex
- Age
- 39
- Final match
- Toward the end of the county season
- Last Test captaincy
- Elgar captained South Africa when Temba Bavuma was injured
- Retirement reason
- More time with his partner and young family