England’s former captain and their highest run-getter in red ball cricket Alastair Cook is set to retire after the final test match against India at Oval in London. Cook, 33, played 161 Tests , scoring 12,254 runs at an average of 44.88 with 32 hundreds and 56 half centuries.
He made his national debut against India in 2006, scoring an unbeaten century in the second innings in Nagpur. He lead his side for a record 59 Tests before stepping down from the role in 2017.
Cook’s retirement comes after England seal the Specsavers test series 3-1 in the Southampton test. His form was doubt-able in the ongoing series as he could just manage 109 runs in seven innings of four Test matches.
Cook’s statement
“After much thought and deliberation over the last few months I have decided to announce my retirement from international cricket at the end of this Test series against India.
“Although it is a sad day, I can do so with a big smile on my face knowing I have given everything and there is nothing left in the tank. I have achieved more than I could have ever imagined and feel very privileged to have played for such a long time alongside some of the greats of the English game,” Cook said.
I will miss the dressing room environment- Cook
“The thought of not sharing the dressing room, again, with some of my teammates was the hardest part of my decision, but I know the timing is right,” he said.
Thanking Graham Gooch for shaping his career
“There are too many people to thank individually, but a special mention must go to the Barmy Army and all supporters for their constant encouragement for the team and also a special mention to Graham Gooch.
“As a seven year-old, I queued for his autograph outside Essex County Cricket Club and years later was so fortunate to have him mentoring me. Graham was my sounding board, especially in the early years of my career, spending hour after hour throwing balls at me with his dog stick. He made me realise you always need to keep improving whatever you are trying to achieve,” said Cook while paying rich tribute to Gooch.
Just another fact……….
This is not the first time when a legendary cricketer will retire, playing his last test against India. Earlier in 2015, Kumar Sangakarra also played his last test against India which was the 2nd test of Cricbuzz cup in 2015.
