Hyderabad, Aug 18: Team India batsman V V S Laxman, going through a rough patch in his career, today announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect.
Laxman told a press conference here that he wanted to give youngsters an opportunity to come up in Indian cricket.
Laxman however said he would play for Hyderabad during the Ranji Trophy this year.
Watched by his parents and members of his immediate family, Laxman said, he was unable to make his mind till late last night, but ultimately he decided to hear his inner conscience.
"I communicated my decision to the BCCI and the national selectors this morning", he said.
Laxman denied that it was a hasty decision on his part, since he was selected for Team India for the first Test against New Zealand beginning in Hyderbad on August 23.
"I feel blessed to have got the opportunity to have represented my country for 16 glorious years", said Laxman.
Laxman made 8,781 runs playing 134 Tests.
Replying to questions, Laxman said, he considered Wasim Akram as the toughest bowler to play against, "since he was the master of variation".
"My inner conscience said, your country and team is more important than your personal aspirations", he said.
