5 great players who retired at the right time

Alastair Cook

Alastair Cook

England's greatest Test batsman, Cook was a modern genius whose gritty knocks formed the cornerstone for his side's success over the past one decade. An astute captain as well, Cook became England's most-capped cricketer and the highest run-getter, over a career full of spectacular, marathon knocks that deflated the opposition.

After the dismal 2016 tour of India, after which he decided to let go of captaincy, Cook did not seem to be the same player, failing to adapt as he crossed the age of 32. He scored a scintillating double ton in the Ashes late last year, but decided it was time to move on, announcing that he will retire at the end of the 2018 India series.

He did not push long, making sure that he made way for youngsters and bid adieu at the right time, leaving a lasting legacy and gaping hole at the top of the order for England.