Sachin Tendulkar says he will retire after 200th Test. Full text of his letter to BCCI

Thursday, Oct 10, 2013, 15:52 IST
Sachin Tendulkar has contacted the President, BCCI, and has requested the BCCI to release the following statement to the media, on his behalf:
Indian batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar has announced that he will retire from the Tests following his approaching 200th Test cricket match.

Following is the official letter which Sachin Tendulkar wrote to BBCI:
"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. 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.
Sachin Tendulkar
Forwarded by:
Sanjay Patel
Hony. Secretary
BCCI