Vernon Philander reflects on international career after taking South Africa bow

The 34-year-old endured a chaotic send-off in Johannesburg but insists he has no regrets as he prepares for a move to Somerset

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Despite a chequered final Test in Johannesburg, Vernon Philander had plenty to celebrate as he untied his bowling boots for the final time as a South Africa international.

The 34-year-old had announced he would call time on his Proteas career before the series. He departs this sector of the game after 64 Tests, 30 one-day internationals and seven T20Is.

Philander did endure a slightly ignominious send-off, however, having been fined 15 per cent f his match fee for the send-off he directed towards Jos Buttler after dismissing him during England's first innings.

He then suffered a grade two hamstring injury during his final Test bowling innings, limiting him to just nine balls. Philander struck 10 as South Africa attempted to save the game on day four, but it was not enough to deny England victory by 191 runs.

Bound for Somerset in the County Championship on a Kolpak contract, Philander exits Test cricket with 224 wickets at 22.32 and has no regrets as he takes his leave.

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"I've had a wonderful career for South Africa and it was probably time to hang it up and give it over to some of the younger guys," he told Sky Sports.

"It is always a tough decision. Test cricket is the real format, the real test of character. 

"It is the format I've come to love over the years and I think for any cricketer you should be looking to play Test cricket. We should do all we can to make sure it stays attractive.

"It has been a tough decision to walk away from it but I'm at that age of 35 whereto one a bit of your sharpness.

"I was really emotional. Cape Town was really the sad moment for me, being my home ground.

"Pulling up here a hurting my hamstring here left a sour taste in my mouth. I am looking to go going over there and having a positive impact on the team."

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