Murali says he needs to play all forms of cricket to stay motivated

The 35-year-old, who received a runners-up medal at the World Cup, said he had no intention of retiring.

He said: "I will have to call it a day some time. But I am hoping to play for at least another two years and see how good it is and how my fitness is.

"I need to be involved in the game to be fully motivated and interested."

Muralitharan's international team-mate Sanath Jayasuriya turns 38 next month.

But he believes there is no reason why the star opener, or their 33-year-old colleague Chaminda Vaas, cannot continue for some time yet.

He said: "Sanath is very fit and although he is nearly 38 he can play in any ODI side. He can play as long as he is fit.

"And knowing Sanath he looks after himself so well. And Vaasy is just 33.

"I don't think Vaas should be looking to retire. He should maintain his fitness and continue and should be looking at the next World Cup too."

Muralitharan, with 674 Test wickets and 455 one-day scalps, will be heading to England next week to start his third stint with county side Lancashire.