England captain Andrew Strauss has announced his retirement from professional cricket.
The Middlesex batsman made the shock announcement at a press conference today.
The 35-year-old led England to two Ashes wins and the top of the world rankings. He scored 21 Test centuries over 11 years.
Strauss told the ECB website: “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.
"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.
"There are too many people who have helped me on this incredible journey to mention them all by name, but I would like to thank all the Middlesex and England players I have played alongside, as well as the phenomenal coaches and support staff with whom I have been fortunate enough to work."
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