Alistair Cook has resigned as England Test captain after a record 59 matches in charge.
Cook, who led his country to Ashes victories in 2013 and 2015, took up the role in 2012 after Andrew Strauss stepped down.
The 30-year-old, who has more appearances and scored more runs than any other player in English Test cricket, said: “Stepping down has been an incredibly hard decision but I know this is the correct decision for me and at the right time for the team.
“Playing for England really is a privilege and I hope to carry on as a Test player, making a full contribution and helping the next England captain and the team however I can.”
Record breaker:
- England Tests as captain: 59
- England Test appearances: 140
- England Test runs: 11,057
- England Test centuries: 30
- England Test defeats as captain: 22
Reaction
The great and the good of English cricket reacted to Cook’s resignation on Twitter.
Thanks Skip! pic.twitter.com/cvw0oZeaPw
— Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) February 6, 2017
England bowler Stuart Broad said thanks to his teammate.
Timing in life is everything .. and once again Alastair Cook has got it spot on .. A Great man who I hope plays on for many more years #Cook
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) February 6, 2017
Former England Captain Michael Vaughan paid tribute.
Sad to see Cooky step down! Legend of a person and always backed me. Thanks skip! ?? pic.twitter.com/YqK2FJay6R
— Moeen Ali (@MoeenAli) February 6, 2017
Allrounder Moeen Ali also had kind words for his former captain.
