ECB Chairman Colin Graves pays tribute to Alastair Cook

The ECB Chairman Colin Graves has paid a glowing tribute to Alastair Cook who announced his intention to retire from international cricket earlier today.

Cook, who has won a record 160 Test caps for England, and also captained both Test and One-Day sides, is to step down from the international game at the end of the current Specsavers Test series against India.

Commenting on Cook's twelve-year international career, ECB Chairman Colin Graves said: “Alastair’s selfless dedication to the England cause and his desire to succeed are an object lesson to any professional cricketer. As our highest ever Test run-scorer and most capped player, he fully deserves to be remembered as one of England’s greatest ever cricketers.

“He can also be very proud of his achievements as a hugely successful England captain; leading the team to two Ashes series wins in 2013 and 2015, and our first Test series win in India for 28 years in 2012.

“I would like to personally thank Alastair for everything he has given to the England team and also acknowledge the important supporting role his family has played in helping him make such a success of his career.

“He leaves the international arena with our warm best wishes and will, we trust, continue to grace our county game with Essex for many years to come.”