Alastair Cook steps down from his role as England Captain

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Alastair Cook steps down as England Test captain. Image Source: twitter

Internet Desk: Star English batsman Alastair Cook has at last decided to step down from his position as England Test captain after being there in that role for 59 Tests. Cook informed his decision to the Chairman of the England & Wales Cricket Board, Colin Graves, on Sunday evening but at the same time has stated his wish to continue playing as a batsman.

Though there has been no declaration on his successor, though it is expected that the vice captain Joe Root will step up to take up the responsibility.

“It’s been a huge honour to be England captain and to lead the Test team over the past five years,” he 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.

“I’ve had time to reflect after the India series and this weekend I spoke to Colin Graves, the chairman, to explain and offer my resignation.

“It’s a sad day personally in many ways but I want to thank everyone I’ve captained, all the coaches and support staff and, of course, the England supporters and the Barmy Army who follow us home and away and have given us unwavering support.

“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.”

Appointed in August 2012, Cook has led the team through more Test matches than any other England captain. His record includes Ashes victories at home in 2013 and 2015 as well as series wins in India and South Africa. He also led the one-day side for 69 one-day internationals between 2010 and 2014, another England record.