Since 11, cricket has been my life: Sachin Tendulkar's letter to BCCI

Sachin Tendulkar has announced his retirement after he plays his 200th test. Here is a statement from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.

MEDIA RELEASE

Sachin Tendulkar has contacted the President, BCCI, and has requested the BCCI to release the following statement to the Media, on his behalf:

"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

Sanjay Patel

Hony. Secretary

BCCI