London, Dec 15 (IANS): Veteran Sri Lankan batsman Kumar Sangakkara has expressed his keenness to join English county side Surrey during the next season.

"Playing for Surrey is something that I really want to do," Sangakkara was quoted as saying by Sky Sports Monday.

"Graham Ford is there. I've worked with Fordy and he's been brilliant for Sri Lankan cricket, and personally to me. He's been a fantastic influence in my career."

The 37-year-old will retire from One-Day Internationals (ODI) after the 2015 World Cup, starting Feb 14.

"The idea is not to go cold turkey with retirement, but to slowly wind it down and make sure I don't drive my family nuts by staying at home all day. Hopefully I'll be able to make it there and have a good season," he said.

He, however, will continue to play Test cricket, though not far a long period.

"My plans for next year are a case of finalising my Test career, and ensuring I can keep my word to the people that I've given my word to," the left-hander said.

"The only thing left is to think about is my Test career beyond the World Cup. But I don't see myself playing more than a couple of series at the most."