Johannesburg – Veteran batsman Ahmed Amla has retired from all forms of cricket, his domestic team, the Dolphins, confirmed on Friday.
Amla, who averaged 34.30 with the bat in 128 first-class matches, and 31.15 in 127 one-day games, said he would focus on his studies and business opportunities.
“Ahmed has been a loyal player, captain and ambassador of KZN and Dolphins cricket over the past 15 years, having played almost 300 games,” said Jesse Chellan, CEO of the KwaZulu-Natal Cricket Union (KZNCU).
“He was one of the first group of non-white players to cement a place in domestic cricket post unity, and has played a pivotal role in paving the way for the next group of players.
“A calm and thinking leader, he captained the Sunfoil Dolphins team during a difficult period and more recently has helped grow our younger players in our provincial team.”
Chellan hoped Amla, the older brother of Proteas top-order batsman Hashim Amla, would return to the sport as an administrator.
“I would like to congratulate Ahmed on the culmination of a career spanning across three decades,” said Dolphins captain Daryn Smit.
“He was a pillar of strength for me personally as a youngster trying to find my feet some 10 years ago, and he has continued to be so for many more of our younger players up to the present day.
“The manner in which Ahmed played the game and carried himself as a professional will always stand out for me.
“I wish him everything of the best for his future endeavors but I know he will not be lost to the game altogether.” – Sapa