Kallis announces retirement from Test cricket

DURBAN: Legendary South African all-rounder, Jacques Kallis has announced his retirement from Test cricket at the end of the Durban Test against India.

Commenting on his decision, Kallis, who has featured in 165 Tests for South Africa said: "It's been an honour and a privilege to have been part of the South African Test team since making my debut 18 years ago. I have enjoyed every moment out in the middle but I just feel that the time is right to hang up my Test whites. It wasn't an easy decision to come to, especially with Australia around the corner and the success this team is enjoying, but I feel that I have made my contribution in this format."

Kallis however wants to continue playing for South Africa in ODI cricket, and he has already stated his ambition to feature in the 2015 World Cup to be held in Australia and New Zealand. "I don't see it as goodbye because I still have a lot of hunger to push South Africa to that World Cup in 2015 if I am fit and performing", he said.

One of the greatest ever all-rounder Kallis made his Test debut as a 20-year-old against England at Kingsmead, Durban and will finish his Test career at the same ground. He has scored 13,174 runs, taken 292 wickets and has also been a fine fielder, holding onto 199 catches.