Farhaan Behardien announces retirement to end 18-year career

South African all-rounder Farhaan Behardien called it a day on his cricketing career after dedicating 18 years of his life to the sport, having played 560 professional games across formats. Behardien donned the Proteas jersey 97 times where he had the privilege of being a part of the national squad in four World Cups.

While Behardien could not have a successful Test career, he did make the most of his limited-overs career, having amassed 1074 and 518 runs in 59 ODIs and 38 T20Is respectively. He also registered 14 ODI and three T20I wickets.

Farhan Behardein thanks the people who backed him on his cricketing journey

Taking to his official Twitter handle, Behardein penned down an emotional post as he went on to thank all the people who supported him in his cricketing journey.

“The dust has settled a bit. Been pretty emotional the last couple of weeks. 18 years has come and gone. 560 pro games across all formats, including 97 caps for my country, 17 trophies in the cabinet and blessed to have played in 4 World Cups,” the note read.

“Thanks to my family and friends who gave unwavering support. Thanks to all the coaches and support staff I’ve come across in my career, all of my teammates, boy I’ve played with some of my heroes and some of the greats! 

“Thanks specifically to the Titans (skyblues) for taking a punt on a young kid all those years ago & giving me a platform to showcase my skill. Thanks to the fans who supported me throughout the years and to those who gave me grief, whichever side of the fence you sat, it fueled my desire nonetheless. I lived my dreams,” the note further read.

“To be honest it wasn’t easy. The good stuff rarely are, but as a result I haven’t “worked” a day in 18 years, cause it was my passion and I loved the graft. Feet up for a bit and onto the next challenge. Much love,” he concluded.

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— Farhaan Behardien (@fudgie11) December 27, 2022

Behardein was a part of arguably the best Proteas squad in modern-day cricket led by AB de Villiers that made the semifinals of the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.  He was also one of the key members of the South African squad that registered a famous 3-2 ODI series victory over India in the 2015-16 tour.