ALASTAIR COOK STEPS DOWN AS ENGLAND CAPTAIN

PCA STATEMENT ON ALASTAIR COOK David Leatherdale, The PCA Chief Executive, said: “We are sorry to learn that Alastair Cook has decided to step down after captaining England in a record 59 Test Matches. We appreciate that this must have been a very difficult decision for Alastair to make. “Alastair should be proud of his achievements as England captain having led the side to Ashes series victories in 2013 and 2015 plus away wins in India and South Africa during his four-and-a-half years in charge. “Throughout his time as captain Alastair has been an outstanding ambassador for English cricket and the perfect role model for all professional cricketers. “Alastair has also been a good friend to the PCA by kindly supporting our fund-raising events and generously helping the PCA Professional Cricketers’ Trust during his Benefit Year in 2014. We are very grateful to Alastair for all his support. “Alastair’s decision to step down as captain is not, of course, the end of his Test career. I am sure that he will continue to score heavily and add to his phenomenal record as a batsman at that level.”