Jacques Kallis bids adieu to Test cricket; Durban Test to be his last

Jacques Kallis – probably one of the finest all-rounders the game has even seen, will retire from Test cricket after the Durban Test between India and South Africa.

Zee Media Bureau/Suyash Srivastava

Johannesburg: South Africa's legendary cricketer Jacques Kallis – probably one of the finest all-rounders the game has even seen, has announced his decision to retire from Test cricket after the Durban Test between India and South Africa. Cricket South Africa confirmed the news through their official Twitter account.

#csanews Jacques Kallis to retire from Test cricket after 2nd Test v India in Durban http://t.co/J3t9wmdajs #Kallis

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) December 25, 2013

CSA however said the 38-year-old will be available for selection in the ODIs and he wants to appear in the ICC 2015 World Cup.

Kallis remains available for selection in limited-overs cricket, and is still eyeing that WC in 2015 #Kallis

— Cricket South Africa (@OfficialCSA) December 25, 2013

Kallis was lacking form as he scored just 34 runs from two innings and was dismissed for a first-ball duck in the first innings by lanky Indian pacer Ishant Sharma. Even in the recently concluded Test series against Pakistan, the Proteas all-rounder couldn't do much and had a poor show with the bat. Notably, Kallis made his Test debut against England in 1995 at Kingsmead. He has scored 44 centuries and 58 half-centuries from 165 Tests. Following Kallis' announcement, South African skipper Graeme Smith tweeted his thoughts about his legendary teammate.

It's been emotional few days knowing JK retiring.all I can say what a privilege to have played with the great man!.....— Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) December 25, 2013

South Africa are yet to win an ICC World Cup. Kallis, who has been an integral part of South African squad is keen to represent the country in the coloured jersey at the prestigious tournament. Kallis has a phenomenal record in ODIs as well where he has 11, 574 runs to his name from 325 matches.