Alastair Cook to retire from international cricket after Oval Test

The Essex opener has been going through a lean patch for the last couple of years and question marks were raised about his place in the England side because of his recent form in the longest format of the game. Cook scored a double century against Australia in Melbourne in December last year and since then his form has been a concern for the team. Cook formally announced his retirement in a press conference today.

“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,” Cook announced in a statement that was released by the ECB.

“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. 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."

With 12254 runs in Test cricket, Cook is the highest run-getter for England in the format. He has 32 centuries to his name and averaged more than 45 in the format. After taking up the role of captain permanently in 2012, he stepped down from the role in 2017 to pave the way for Joe Root to take over the responsibility of the team.

"I have loved cricket my whole life from playing in the garden as a child and will never underestimate how special it is to pull on an England shirt. So I know it is the right time to give the next generation of young cricketers their turn to entertain us and feel the immense pride that comes with representing your country," Cook went on to add.

"My family and I have had 12 wonderful years fulfilling my dreams and this could not have been done without them. So I wish to thank my parents and brothers, my wife, Alice, and her family for their quiet, unwavering support behind the scenes. As cricketers, who travel frequently, we often don't realise just how important our families are to our success.

"I would also like to thank Essex County Cricket Club for their help and support ever since I was 12, and I can't wait to get fully involved with them in the 2019 season. I wish the England team every success in the future, and I will be watching with great excitement.

“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."

Cook, who has scored 15,519 international runs from 256 matches which includes 37 centuries and 75 fifties, will play his final match at the Oval against India.