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Xtra Time Web Desk: One of the greatest fast bowlers in modern day Dale Steyn has retired from all forms of cricket with immediate effect. Steyn made his debut for South Africa in 2004 against England in Port Elizabeth. In his 93 Tests, Steyn has picked up 439 wickets at an average of 22.95. His best performance in Tests came against India in Nagpur in 2010, when he claimed figures of 7-51.

In 125 ODIs Steyn took 196 wickets at an average of 25.95 and economy rate of 4.87. He also played in 47 T20Is for his country, taking 64 wickets. His last International appearance for South Africa was in February 2020, in a T20I against Australia at Johannesburg.

The Proteas cricketer took to social media on Tuesday to announce his decision.

The 38-year-old Proteas pacer earlier retired from Test cricket back in August 2019 and since then hasn't played for South Africa (T20 vs Australia) since February 2020.

Among a few notable performances of Steyn was his 5 wickets v India in 2011 World Cup. His 7 wkts in Nagpur Test was also another memorable bowling performance not to forget his 10-fer in the 2008 Boxing Day Test.

Steyn tweeted his statement, announcing his decision: It read:

"And it's been a long December and there's reason to believe maybe this year will be better than last," Steyn said in his statement. "I can't remember all the times I tried to tell myself to hold on to these moments as they pass.

"It's been 20 years since training, matches, travel, wins, losses, strapped feet, jetlag, joy, and brotherhood. There are too many memories to tell. Too many faces to thank. So I left it to the experts to sum up, my favourite band, the Counting Crows.

"Today I officially retire from the game I love the most. Bitter sweet but grateful. Thank you everyone, from family to teammates, journalists to fans, it's been an incredible journey together."

Steyn enjoyed a successful run in franchise cricket as well - featuring for Deccan Chargers, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Brisbane Heat, Sunrisers Hyderabad, Gujarat Lions, Jamaica Tallawahs, Cape Town Knight Riders, Cape Town Blitz, Glasgow Giants, Melbourne Stars, Islamabad United, Kandy Tuskers and Quetta Gladiators. After making himself unavailable for IPL 2021, where he stressed he wasn't retiring, Steyn last featured in the PSL in March this year.