England batsman Alastair Cook hangs up his boots as England’s Test captain after four years in charge but wants to continue as a player, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has confirmed.

The 32-year-old, who appointed skipper in 2012, led his nation in 59 Tests, includes two Ashes victories at home in 2013 and 2015 as well as Test series wins in India and South Africa.

“Stepping down has been an incredibly hard decision but I know this is the correct decision for me and at the right time for the team,” Cook said in a statement on Monday.

“I’ve had time to reflect after the India series and this weekend I spoke to Colin Graves, the Chairman, to explain and offer my resignation,” England’s most capped test captain said referring to last year’s 4-0 loss in India.

The left-handed opening batsman, who plays county cricket for Essex – has scored more Test centuries in England’s cricket history and is also the country’s most iconic batsman with 11,057 runs in 140 tests.

Joe Root is tipped to be appointed as Cook’s successor with Ben Stokes as vice-captain.