Dean Elgar mulling Test retirement after India series

South African Test cricket faces a potential shake-up as Dean Elgar is contemplating retirement following the upcoming series against India. The decision seems rooted in Elgar feeling excluded from Test coach Shukri Conrad’s future strategies, as indicated by the Rapport newspaper. Despite strong domestic performances, boasting 402 runs at an impressive average of 80.40, his uncertain standing within the team has cast doubt over his future.

Elgar was anticipated to lead a weakened South African squad against New Zealand, notably missing their T20 stars, but discussions with Cricket South Africa reportedly hit hurdles. This development aligns with Conrad's supposed consideration of Neil Brand, the South Africa A captain, for the opening batters role in the upcoming series. Tony de Zorzi appears poised to partner Brand should Elgar opt for retirement post the India series.

“Just expect the news [of Elgar’s retirement] to break soon,” Rapport Newspaper quoted a source.

The southpaw's ascent to the permanent Test match captaincy in June 2021 initially appeared promising for South Africa. His tenure saw commendable victories as the team triumphed over West Indies with a 2-0 series win and overturned a 1-0 deficit against India at home. Notably, in the absence of IPL stars, he marshalled spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer to secure another win against Bangladesh within a month on home soil.

Elgar kept the pot boiling since 2018

Notably, the 36-year-old's discontentment with receiving inadequate recognition for his contributions dates back to 2018. This situation marks a potential turning point for the seasoned cricketer, signaling a potential end to his illustrious Test career. 

“In my past, I haven’t been given a lot of credit for what I have done. I don’t think there is a big relationship between me and South African cricket fans. A lot of time, what I have done has been brushed under the carpet. People forget that you need cricketers like me in every team,” Elgar confessed in 2018 as quoted by The Indian Express.