Mike Hussey to retire after third Test against Sri Lanka

Australia batsman Mike Hussey has announced that he will retire from international cricket after the third Test against Sri Lanka in Sydney next week. The 37-year-old told Australia's Nine Network that he wanted to spend more time with his family.

Hussey is the second seasoned Australia batsman to retire in a month after former captain Ricky Ponting called it a day following the third Test against South Africa in Perth.

The news comes as something of a surprise: Hussey has been in top form, scoring three centuries in his last five Tests, and there was the significant carrot of a tour to India in February and March and back-to-back Ashes Tests in 2013 to look forward to. He has 6,183 runs at an average of 51.52 from 78 Tests and has also played 185 one-day and 38 Twenty20 internationals.

An official statement from Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said: "Michael Hussey has been a vital contributor to many Australian team wins over his very successful Test cricket career.

"Affectionately known as 'Mr Cricket', he has always been thoroughly committed to meticulous preparation and the highest levels of physical fitness which have in turn delivered consistent performances in all forms of the game.

"An incredibly reliable player and leader within the Australian cricket team, Michael will retire from Test cricket with a record that puts him amongst the very best Australian batsmen of all time.

"Beyond his contributions to team success, he will be remembered for the way he has carried himself on and off the field - and in doing so he has won the respect and admiration of players, officials and fans all around the world.

"In congratulating him on a great Test career, we wish him well and hope to see him stay close to the game after his playing days are over."