07 February,2017 08:16 AM IST | | AFP
After 59 Test matches at the helm - more than any other England skipper before him - Alastair says it’s a sad day but, the right moment to call time on his leadership
Alastair Cook
Alastair Cook
London: Alastair Cook resigned as England Test captain after a record 59 matches in the role, saying yesterday it was "a sad day" but the right decision for the team.
Cook, England's leading scorer in Tests with 11,057 runs, became captain in August 2012 and led his country to Ashes glory on home soil in 2013 and 2015 as well as series wins in India and South Africa.
Here are some of the reactions by past and Present England cricketers on Twitter
Graham Gooch
Former England captain and Alastair Cook's mentor
'This type of sportsman only comes once in a generation, maybe less. He's a great man and he's still got great things to do for his country. My one abiding memory of Alastair Cook batting was when I took a photo of the scoreboard in 2010 when Alastair Cook was 235 not out (against Australia in Brisbane). That's what he brings to the England team.'
Nasser Hussain
Former England captain
'As England captain you're more than just a leader. You're also an ambassador for your country and I don't think anyone can doubt what a great and fantastic ambassador for the game and country Alastair Cook has been. He's been a very dignified captain.'
Matthew Hoggard
Former England pacer
'Alastair Cook will be remembered as the most successful captain and not only as a great leader, but also as a genuinely nice bloke. All, who has played with him and under him, won't have a bad word against him'
Moeen Ali
England spinner
"Sad to see Cooky step down! Always backed me and gave me the support I needed. Top man.'
Michael vaughan
Former England captain
'Timing in life is everything... and once again Alastair Cook has got it spot on... A great man who I hope plays on for many more years'
James taylor
Former England batsman
'I'm surprised he's stepped down but he's a great man and a brilliant ambassador for the sport! Lots more runs from Cooky in an England shirt.'
Barmy army
England supporters club
'Thanks for all of your hard work Captain Cook, it's been a pleasure to watch you marshal the troops with such skill and pride.'
