Adelaide, Jan 26 : Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist has announced his retirement from Test cricket after the conclusion of the fourth and final Test against India currently underway in Adelaide.

Gilchrist will step down on Monday after the final match against India and he will walk away from ODIs after the CB Series in March.

"I've come to this decision after much thought and discussion with those most important to me," Gilchrist said. "My family and I have been fortunate to have had an amazing journey full of rich experiences throughout my career and are sincerely grateful to all who have helped make this stage of our lives so fulfilling.

"I am now ready and excited to move into the next phase of my life which will, of paramount importance include much more time with Mel, Harrison, Annie and Archie.

"Thank you to Cricket Australia, the Western Australian Cricket Association and Cricket NSW for providing me the opportunity to play First-Class cricket and for the support over the many years.

"Also thank you to all my team mates and support staff who have given me the most enjoyable, fun career anyone could hope for and to the many officials and opponents I have come across. It has been terrific to play against you and more importantly get to know you."

Gilchrist, 36, Gilchrist yesterday became the world record holder for most Test dismissals by a wicketkeeper when he effected his 414th career dismissal to move past South Africa's Mark Boucher.

ANI