The 38-year-old Steyn made his Test debut for South Africa against England in 2004 and took 439 wickets in the five-day format over the next 15 years.

Steyn who hasn't played international cricket since February last year, took 699 international wickets across all formats. He also took 619 First-Class, 284 List A and 263 T20 wickets.

Quoting lyrics from the Counting Crows song, A long December, the Phalaborwa Express announced his retirement on social media.

“And it's been a long December and there's a reason to believe.

“Maybe this year will be better than the last.

“I can't remember all the times I tries to tell myself. To hold on to these moments as they pass.

“It's been 20 years of training, matches, travel, wins, losses, strapped feet, jet lag, joy, and brotherhood.

“There are too many memories to tell. Too many faces to thank.

“Today I officially retire from the game I love the most. Bitter sweet but grateful.

“Thank you to everyone, from family to teammates, journalists to fans, it's been an incredible journey together.”

At his peak Steyn dominated the number one spot on the ICC's rankings Test bowlers for a record 263 weeks between 2008 and 2014.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport