Strauss steps down as England captain

Andrew Strauss today described his decision to step down as England Test captain as being in the “best interest” of the national team.

Strauss confirmed his retirement from all forms of the game at a lunchtime press conference at Lord’s.

The 35-year-old’s decision brings down the curtain on a 100-Test career that peaked with an Ashes victory in Australia 18 months ago.

But since then Strauss’ form has dipped and after his side relinquished their place at the top of the Test rankings after the recent 2-0 series defeat against South Africa he believes the time was right to leave the game.

“After much thought over the last few weeks, I have decided to step down as England Test captain and announce my retirement from all forms of cricket,” he said.

“It has clearly been a tough decision to make but I believe that it is both in the best interests of the England cricket team and myself to step down at this stage.

“I am extremely proud of everything I have achieved as a cricketer, and I have found myself very fortunate to play in an era when some of English cricket’s greatest moments have occurred. I have loved every minute of it.”