Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara has relinquished his role as the captain of the ODI and T20 teams, but will continue as Test captain on a temporary basis till a suitable replacement is found.

He will continue as a player in all formats of the game, and will remain captain of the test side if this is considered helpful for the new captain.

His announcement on Tuesday comes after losing out in the World Cup final to India on Saturday. Potential candidates for the role are Tillakaratne Dilshan and Angelo Mathews for the ODIs and T20s while Thilan Samaraweera could lead the Test team.

Sangakkara said in a statement - I would like to announce that after careful consideration I have concluded that it is in the best long-term interests of the team that I step down now as national captain so that a new leader can be properly groomed for the 2015 World Cup in Australia.

This was a decision I made prior to the 2011 World Cup. I will be 37 by the next World Cup and I cannot therefore be sure of my place in the team. It is better that Sri Lanka is led now by a player who will be at the peak of their career during that tournament.

It has been a true honor and a great privilege to serve my country as captain during the past two years and, although bitterly disappointed that we could not win the final, I am very proud of the performances of the team.

I met with the selectors on Monday and I explained my reasons for my decision and I assured them of my fullest support in helping our new captain settle into the leadership. In this regard, I have offered to continue as the Test captain for the forthcoming series with England and possibly Australia if the selectors believe this would help the new captain and aid the transition.

I have no plans of retirement from international cricket at this stage and subject to form and fitness I would like to be considered for selection in all three formats of the game for the foreseeable future.

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