Sangakkara Thanks Team & Wife in Emotional Farewell Speech

Watch Kumar Sangakkara talk about his wife, children and team-mates after retiring from international cricket.

Virat Kohli, right, presents a souvenir to Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara at the end of his farewell test. (Photo: AP)

The 37-year-old left-hander, who signed off with 12,400 runs in 134 Tests at an average of 57.40, had a wide grin on his face for most part as dignitaries, one after another, showered him with mementos and good wishes in an elaborate farewell ceremony after the match.

He articulated an emotional speech thanking his family, team-mates and the Indian team.

I have so many people to thank. To all my past captains, to all my team-mates, the support, the inspiration, the drive you have shown, I value it very very highly. All the moments in the dressing room, I am going to miss that very much.
– Kumar Sangakkara

“A lot of people have asked me what has inspired me. I don’t have to look beyond my parents. I am sorry I don’t want to embarrass you but you have been my inspiration. And my siblings. Thank you amma and appachi. I had the most amazing parents and siblings. They supported me whether I played well or not. I felt safe at home,” said a choking Sangakkara.

“They say you can’t choose your family, but I am thankful I was born as your children and your sibling. I am sorry I don’t always get emotional, but this is the rare time that my parents and my siblings are here.”

Sangakkara also thanked his team and the visiting Indians for giving him an emotional farewell.

“To Virat and the Indian team, thanks for the kind words and more importantly the quality of cricket you have brought here. I couldn’t have asked anything more than tough cricket when I am leaving. You have been our toughest opponents. We have planned to beat you. Sometimes we have succeeded, sometimes we haven’t, but thanks for being there,” he said.

Finally to Angelo (Mathews) and my team. Angie, you have an amazing team. You have an amazing future. Just be fearless. Don’t be afraid to lose when you are going for a win.
– Kumar Sangakkara

Among the greatest batsmen of all time, Sangakkara’s ODI run haul stood at 14,234 in 404 matches at an average of 41.98, including 25 hundreds