Afridi has scored 1,634 runs and taken 44 wickets in Test cricket

The all-rounder has also made himself unavailable for Pakistan's tour of South Africa early next year.

The 26-year-old said the packed international calendar added to his decision to break from the Test arena.

But he insisted: "I will reconsider my future as a Test cricketer following the 2007 World Cup."

Afridi hopes the break from the Test arena will give him maximum preparation time for the World Cup in the West Indies which starts next March.

"I have decided that it is better if I stop playing Test cricket and concentrate on giving my best for the team in the one-dayers," he said.

"This decision is based on my feeling that it is not possible for me to adjust and subsequently give 100% in both forms of the game."

I am surprised but in the end it's his decision and it gives an opportunity for others to play for Pakistan. Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer

Afridi holds the world record for the fastest one-day hundred - off just 37 balls against Sri Lanka in Nairobi in 1996.

In a total of 222 limited over internationals, he has scored 4,824 runs and taken 184 wickets.

But there was speculation that his Test sabbatical was a reaction to being dropped from this month's Test against Sri Lanka in Kandy, which his side won by eight wickets without him.

But Afridi insists it is the strain of the hectic cricketing schedule which was the sole reason behind his decision.

"It's all good that we earn good money but there is just too much cricket," he said.

"The international schedules are completely packed and there is hardly any time off."

The all-rounder will sit out nine Test matches in all to aid his preparation for the World Cup.

But Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer admitted Afridi's decision came as a shock.