India's Sachin Tendulkar this morning announced that he has retired from the one-day international form of cricket.

The 39-year-old, who made 463 ODI appearances in 23 years, made 18,426 runs at an average of 44.83 in the 50-over form of the game.

In a statement, Tendulkar said: "I feel blessed to have fulfilled the dream of being part of a World Cup-winning Indian team."

His first two appearances in ODIs ended in ducks but he became the first ever batsman to notch a double hundred in the 50-over form two years ago.

He added: "The preparatory process to defend the World Cup in 2015 should begin early and in right earnest. I would like to wish the team all the very best for the future.

"I am eternally grateful to all my well-wishers for their unconditional support and love over the years."

Tendulkar hasn't played a Twenty20 match since 2006 and will now look to improve his ailing Test form.