Jayasuriya scored more than 6,600 Test runs for Sri Lanka

The 36-year-old retired last month but Sri Lanka's new head selector, Asantha De Mel, persuaded him to reconsider.

He is now set to play for Sri Lanka against Sussex at Hove with a view to being picked for the second Test.

"We need some experience in the top order. That is why they requested me," Jayasuriya told Test Match Special.

"I know it is not going to be easy here but you need to take that challenge.

"We will see how it goes. If I get picked for the XI, I always want to play for my country," he added.

Sri Lanka struggled with the bat in the first Test and were forced to follow on after being bowled out for 192 on day three at Lord's.

De Mel said Jayasuriya had retired too early and had been forced out by former chief selector Lalith Kaluperuma.

Jayasuriya played 102 Tests and hit 6,613 runs at an average of 41.59.

His last appearance was the second Test against Pakistan in April where he dislocated his thumb.

De Mel claimed Jayasuriya was told to either go or be dropped adding: "The way it was done was absolutely ridiculous."

Jayasuriya said he had had a long conversation with Tom Moody and the new Sri Lanka coach was fine with his decision to come out of retirement.