Wednesday marked 10 years since Muthiah Muralitharan hung up his boots in Test cricket. His Test career ended with the highest record of 800 Test wickets and Dhoni-led Indian team lost the Test at Galle.

His family, friends and fans were at the ground. Dr Nithya Ramamurthy, the mother of Murali's Indian wife Madhi was specially invited to witness the farewell Test match.

Recalling the 10th anniversary of Murali's retirement, the wife Madhi, speaking exclusively, said, "I remember Murali’s retirement very well. We as a family felt very sad he was retiring , but murali always had an Innate intelligence he knew it was the right time for him to exit the game"

"It’s not easy to take even one wicket, every player wants to prove themselves in batting they will not give their wickets easily. For Murali to get his 800 wickets simply shows that he is the epitome of bowling, I am always proud of him", she concluded.

Proud victim

India's slow left-arm bowler Pragyan Ojha was Murali's milestone victim.  

"I am happy to be a part of his history", Ojha speaking exclusively over telephone from Hyderabad said.

"As a bowler, his achievements speak for himself. I don’t think anyone needs to justify it. I remember very well that Gary Kristen, our coach was very upset with us because India lost the match and Murali ended up getting it specially against a very strong batting lineup. It’s a special achievement for him.”

"We could have played to our potential if we were a strong unit. That’s what the coach wanted us to play the brand of cricket we are known for. Kirsten was more focused in Indian team and wanted us to do well as a team".