Tendulkar to retire after 200th Test

Sachin Tendulkar will bring an end to his scintillating 24-year international career after he plays his 200th Test, which is planned to be for the duration of the home series beside West Indies in November. Tendulkar proclaimed his conclusion on Wednesday afternoon, via a BCCI statement, like he had done when he retired from ODIs in December 2012.

"All my life, I have had a dream of playing cricket for India. I have been living this dream every day for the last 24 years," Tendulkar said in a declaration. "It's hard for me to imagine a life without playing cricket because it's all I have ever done since I was 11 years old. It's been a huge honour to have represented my country and played all over the world. I look forward to playing my 200th Test match on home soil, as I call it a day.

"I thank the BCCI for everything over the years and for permitting me to move on when my heart feels it's time. I thank my family for their patience and understanding. Most of all, I thank my fans and well-wishers who through their prayers and wishes have given me the strength to go out and perform at my best."

Tendulkar's departure had been the matter of much conjecture. He had wound down his career in phases, proclaiming his retirement from ODIs in late December 2012, and with the BCCI shoehorning a home series in contrast to West Indies beforehand the controversy-hit tour to South Africa, it had appeared an apt instant for a home farewell. The venues for Tendulkar's last two Tests have not yet been broadcasted.


News Source: http://www.espncricinfo.com/india/content/story/678469.html