The 38-year-old cricketer, who retired from Test cricket in 2018, has been representing Essex in the County Championship while also providing expert analysis as a pundit. However, Cook has decided to permanently hang up his bat after an incredible two-decade-long career.

Alastair Cook’s retirement marks the end of an era with a host of accomplishments to his name. He twice led England to Ashes victories and became his nation’s highest run-scorer, a record that still stands despite Joe Root’s remarkable efforts in recent years.

According to reports from the Mail Online, an official announcement regarding Cook’s retirement could be made as soon as Friday. Essex is set to face Hampshire in a crucial match as they contend for the championship title.

Cook’s intention is to make a quiet exit from the game, but Essex plans to mark the occasion with a low-key drinks reception to honor both him and Dan Lawrence, who is also leaving the club at the end of the season. Cook believes it’s the right time to step aside and pave the way for younger players to make their mark in the sport.

Once he retires, Cook intends to return to his cherished family farm. He will combine his farming responsibilities with his punditry career, working with both the BBC and TNT Sports. Cook had admitted that transitioning into the media world was challenging at first, and he was even tempted to make a comeback in Test cricket as a result.

In his own words, Cook shared, “I found my first year of commentating incredibly hard. I felt so emotionally attached to those players, really close. You’ve spent so many times and so many conversations together; I didn’t want to ever betray their trust. I didn’t want to talk ill of them because I know how hard it is.”