The legendary Alastair Cook has announced he’s retiring from professional cricket, thus bringing an end to a storied career that began in 2003 and saw him become England’s leading scorer in Test history. Cook had already retired from Tests in 2018 but continued playing domestic cricket for his home county Essex.
Cook, widely regarded as one of the finest cricketers of his era, represented England in 161 Tests, 92 ODIs and four T20Is.
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The former captain made his first-class debut in September 2003 and two years later, played his first Test for England during the India tour of 2005-06.
“Today I am announcing my retirement and the end of my career as a professional cricketer,” Cook said in a statement.
“It is not easy to say goodbye. For more than two decades, cricket has been so much more than my job. It has allowed me to experience places I never dreamed I would go, be part of teams that have achieved things I would never have thought possible and, most importantly, created deep friendships that will last a lifetime,” he added.
Cook played his last Test against India at The Oval during the home series of 2018. He continued to score runs for Essex in county cricket as they won Division One title in 2019 and the Bob Willis Trophy in 2020.
“From the eight-year-old boy who first played for Wickham Bishops Under 11s to now, I end with a strange feeling of sadness mixed with pride. Although above all, I am incredibly happy, Cook said.
The 38-year-old said this is the right time to conclude this phase of his life.
“It is the right time for this part of my life to come to an end. I have always given absolutely everything I possibly have to be the best player I could be, but now I want to make way for the new generation to take over,” he said.
“I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Essex, the county I joined when I was aged 12,” Cook added. “I want to say a massive thank you to everyone at Chelmsford for everything you have given to me. All of the fans, members and staff have always been so supportive, patient and generous,” he added.
Cook has also been working as a commentator since his Test retirement.
“When I ended my international career, I had no idea that I would have five more bonus years playing for Essex. I cannot put into words just how much fun we have had during that time. For that I want to thank head coach Anthony McGrath, Ryan ten Doeschate and Tom Westley, my two captains during that time, and all of the players. I won’t miss strapping on my pads and facing the new ball, but I will miss being in the Eagles’ changing room.”
“Although my England career came to an end in 2018, I remain blown away by the amount of affection I receive from England supporters,” he said. “Wherever I have travelled, you have been there with your enthusiasm, kind words and unshakable belief. English cricket really does have the best fans in the world.
“I will never underestimate the privilege I have had to play cricket. I will always be grateful for what the game has given to me. Now, I hope the Bedfordshire Farmers will find space for a has-been ‘allrounder’ somewhere in their lower order,” Cook said.
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