South Africa’s leading Test wicket-taker Dale Steyn has retired from Test cricket in a bid to prolong his career.

The 36-year-old, who claimed 439 Test victims, was forced out of the World Cup this summer with a shoulder complaint, the latest in a long list of injury troubles in recent years.

“It’s terrible to consider never playing another Test again but what’s more terrifying is the thought of never playing again at all,” he said. “Today I walk away from a format of the game I love so much. In my opinion, Test cricket is the best version of this game. It tests you mentally, physically, emotionally.”

Steyn has vowed to continue making himself available for South Africa in the abridged formats. “I will be focusing on ODIs and T20s for the rest of my career to maximise my full potential and ensure my longevity in this sport,” he added.

Steyn, who will be remembered as one of the finest and ferocious fast bowlers of his era, claimed 26 Test five-wicket hauls.