After an 18-Year Career, Kuhn Announces Retirement

Heino Kuhn, a revered figure in South African cricket, has made the decision to retire from the sport after the 4-Day Series match between the North West Dragons and Western Province.

The match, played in Potchefstroom, was interrupted by rain and a wet outfield.Kuhn, who captained the Dragons, expressed his belief that the time was right to retire. “It seems fitting to conclude my cricketing career on my new home ground in Potchefstroom. Joining the Dragons in 2021, I was confident that my wealth of experience could help the franchise and contribute positively in a leadership capacity.

Given that this marks my 18th year, I made it my mission to lend a hand wherever possible”. Heino Kuhn’s choice to retire was also swayed by the chance to serve as an assistant coach for the Netherlands national team, an opportunity he welcomed with open arms.”Roelof and I have a long history,” he said, referring to former Titans teammate Roelof van der Merwe. “It will be a full circle moment for me to coach him.”

Kuhn, who played for South Africa in four Tests and seven T20Is, also shared some of his favourite memories from his cricketing career. He fondly remembered his time playing for an Affies 1st XI that included Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers and went on to play with them at the Titans.

He also highlighted his 13 trophy-laden seasons at the Titans and SuperSport Park in Centurion as some of his most memorable moments in cricket.”My favorite innings was also for the Titans where I scored my first double century [216] against the Dolphins in 2007,” he said. “I proved to myself that I could perform at that level at an early stage of my career.”

Kuhn spent his final years playing cricket for Kent in England, an experience he described as “an amazing job to play cricket for a living. You see different parts of the world.” He also noted the importance of enjoying and not taking the game for granted.
Kuhn’s family played a vital role in his success throughout his career.

“I’ve had a superb support structure with my parents, brothers and sister always being there for me. My wife [Trudie] and daughter Abigail [2] have always been there for me, supporting me wherever I go. They made me the man I am today.”
Heino Kuhn’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable cricketing career, and he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of cricketers.

Source: Kuhn calls it quits after 18-year career

Picture: Yogendra Singh