Mike Hussey will play his final Test against Sri Lanka next week and retire from international cricket, the veteran batsman said, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.

The rugged 37-year-old, known affectionately Down Under as 'Mr Cricket' for his passion for the game, will sign off at the peak of his powers, having scored three centuries in his past five tests. Hussey said he wanted to bow out on a high.

Hussey had to wait until he was 30 for his Test debut, against West Indies in 2005.

The middle order batsman will play his 79th Test and brings 6,183 runs at an outstanding average of 51.52 into the match.