Sangakkara quits as Sri Lanka captain

COLOMBO: Sri Lanka cricket captain Kumar Sangakkara said Tuesday he was resigning from the job three days after his team lost to India in the last World Cup.

Sangakkara said he told the national selectors that he would leave in one day and Twenty20 captain with immediate effect, but offered to continue as test captain on an interim basis if necessary.

"After careful consideration, I conclude that it is in the best long term interest of the team that I go down now as captain so that a new national leader can not be properly maintained for the World Cup 2015 "Sangakkara, 33, has written to Cricket in Sri Lanka.

"It was a decision I made before the World Cup. I'll be 37 by the next World Cup and I can be sure of my place in the team.

"It is better that Sri Lanka is now run by a player who will be at the peak of their careers during this tournament."

Sangakkara, a drummer and commonly left wicket-keeper said he had not planned to retire as a player.

"I met the selectors on Monday and I explained my reasons for my decision and assure them of my support to help our new captain moved in the direction," he writes.

"In this regard, I proposed to continue the test captain for the forthcoming series with England, Australia and perhaps, if the selectors think that would help the new captain and facilitate the transition.

"I have no plans to retire from international cricket at this stage and subject to form and fitness, I want to be considered for selection in the three game formats for the foreseeable future."