Netherlands all-rounder Pieter Seelaar announces international retirement after long-standing back problems

Amstelveen: Netherlands all-rounder Pieter Seelaar, on Sunday, June 19, announced his retirement from international cricket due to his long-standing back problems. The 34-year-old, who captained the Dutch team in the last four years, put forth his decision during his team’s second ODI against England at the VRA Ground in Amstelveen.

“Since 2020, my back problems got worse to such an extent that – much to my regret – I am no longer able to give everything I’ve got,” Seelaar was quoted as saying before England finished their run-chase.

After the Three Lions won by six wickets, skipper Eoin Morgan heaped praise on Seelaar for playing an integral part for the Netherlands at the highest level.

“It’s been amazing. His contribution to Dutch cricket has been outstanding. On behalf of the England cricket team, we’d like to congratulate him on his retirement and wish him well on his next journey,” Morgan said.

KNCB’s high performance manager, Roland Lefebvre said, “Pieter’s input has been priceless, first as a player and later also as captain. His management style is open, honest and transparent, which has always been appreciated by the players. He can look back upon a wonderful international career which unfortunately comes to an untimely end. We wish him the very best for the future.”