Sachin Tendulkar leads the wishing list for retiring Sangakkara

COLOMBO: Iconic batsman Sachin Tendulkar today joined the cricket world to applaud retiring Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara on his illustrious career and also welcomed him to the club of former players.

"Well played @KumarSanga2. You have been a terrific ambassador for the game & a thorough gentleman. Warm welcome to the club of the Retired!," Tendulkar wrote on his twitter handle.

Sangakkara, who scored 18 in his final innings, today walked out to bat for one final time in international cricket amid a standing ovation at the P Sara Oval and guard of honour by the visiting Indian team here in the second Test match between the two neighbours.

Sangakkara's long-time teammate and captain Mahela Jayawardene said he was proud for the legendary cricketer.

"It wasn't to be in this match but what he was for SL cricket is some thing that you can't take away. Very proud of you mate. @KumarSanga2," wrote Mahela.

Former India batsman VVS Laxman also extended his best wishes to the Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman.

"Congrats @KumarSanga2 on an outstanding career. It was a pleasure playing against & with you mate.Have a fulfilling retired life:) #Legend," Laxman tweeted.

Suresh Raina thanked Sangakkara for all the memories during his 15-year-long illustrious career.

"A gentleman beyond the game well played @KumarSanga2 you are legend thank u for memories??????," said Raina.

Rohit Sharma lauded by tweeting: "An outstanding career of an outstanding player comes to an end. Well played Kumar Sangakkara."

Spinner Harbhajan Singh wished him the very best for his second innings.

"Well done @KumarSanga2 for fantastic 17 years of international cricket!!All the best for your 2nd inn with ur family,friends,loved ones ????"

The International Cricket Council (ICC) wrote on its twitter page: "12,400 Test runs, 14,234 ODI runs, 1,382 T20I runs, 1 incredible career - Thank you @KumarSanga2 #ThankYouSanga."

Responding to his fellow cricketers' tweets, Sangakkara said it was privilege to play for the country.

"Thank you for all the love. Been my privilege to play for my country and in front of all the fans," tweeted Sangakkara.