It was on the cards. After a poor performance from England in India in their last Test series, skipper Alastair Cook, who was criticised heavily for the defeat, has resigned from his post on Monday. However, Cook will still play for England and is ready to help the next captain in his duties.
Alastair Cook is captain of ICC's Test team of the year 2016
The England and Wales Cricket Board, who has accepted Cook's resignation, is yet to name his successor, and Joe Root is tipped to take over the mantle from his former captain. The ECB is expected to announce the new captain soon.
The left-hander captained England in 59 Test matches, which happens to be the most by any English captain.
Cook was appointed the captain of the England team in 2012 and led his team from the front against quality oppositions, and emerged victorious, including Ashes win in 2013 and 2015, which will always be fondly remembered by English cricket fans. Though England might have lost against India badly (4-0) recently in the Test series, one cannot ignore the contribution of Cook, who led the Three Lions to victory in the 2012-13 series in India.
It is such massive victories against big teams that will always remain the highlights of his Test career. The 32-year-old said that it was not an easy decision to give up the role, but felt it was the right time for the team.
"It's been a huge honour to be England captain and to lead the Test team over the past five years. 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," Cook said.
The Essex batsman thanked everyone associated with England cricket and also had a special mention for the national team supporters – Barmy Army.
"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," Cook said.
