Stephen Waugh announces retirement from Test Cricket

Australian Test Captain Stephen Waugh today announced his retirement from international cricket.

His retirement will take effect immediately following the forthcoming 3 Test Series against India.

Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland paid tribute to Waugh saying he will go down in history as one of Australia's greatest cricketers.

"Steve has been an ornament to the game and Australian cricket is certainly better for the outstanding contribution he has made to it for more than 18 years," said Mr Sutherland.

"I know Australian fans will be grateful for the opportunity to personally farewell him as he plays around Australia this summer.

"His courage, leadership and ability to perform at a high level under extreme pressure will ensure that he will be remembered as one of Australia's greatest cricketers.

"Not only has Steve been a wonderful player for Australia, but the pride in which he has represented his country is evident every time he has walked onto the Test or one-day arena.

"One of the cornerstones of cricket in Australia is the spirit in which our great game is played, and no player has worn the Baggy Green cap with more pride than Steve," said Mr Sutherland.

Mr Sutherland also highlighted that Steve will leave the international game at the end of the summer with one of the best Test records in history.

"Steve's playing record speaks for itself. He has played the most Test matches (164) by any player, has made a century against every Test playing nation, and statistically, is Australia's most successful Test Captain with 40 victories from his 53 Tests with a success rate of 75.47 per cent," said Mr Sutherland.

"In anyone's language, that is an amazing effort."

Mr Sutherland said that Cricket Australia will work in conjunction with Waugh and his management to ensure that an appropriate farewell is organised.

"Whilst we will all be saddened to see Steve leave the playing arena, his announcement gives us all an opportunity to celebrate what has been an outstanding career," said Mr Sutherland.

Mr Sutherland said that a replacement Captain will be announced by the National Selection Panel in due course.