England opener Alastair Cook has decided to call it a day on his illustrious international career for England and will wear the national jersey for the last time when his side takes on India in the fifth and final Test match of the series to be played at The Oval from September 7. Nonetheless, he would continue playing for Essex.
In a statement after England’s 60-run win over India in the fourth Test match in Southampton, Cook said, “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.”
The 33-year old left-hander thus would end his career with 161 appearances in which he has scored 12, 254 runs including 32 hundreds.