Alastair Cook has this morning resigned as England captain after a record 59 matches in charge.
Cook took over the role from Kevin Pietersen in 2012 and led his country to 24 wins, 22 losses and 13 draws in 59 matches. He also led the team to Ashes wins in 2013 and 2015.
There has been speculation over Cook's role since last year's 4-0 Test series defeat in India, after which he admitted to having "questions" over whether to continue as leader.
"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," said Cook.
Unlike some Test captains in the past, Cook has said that he would like to continue as a Test player and assist the future captain of the team.
"Playing for England really is a privilege and I hope to carry on as a Test player, making a full contribution and helping the next England captain and the team however I can."
Joe Root is expected to be the man handed the chance to take over from Cook, having been vice-captain since May 2015. The England and Wales Cricket Board has started the process of selecting Cook's successor but it is expected to be the Yorkshire man that gets the nod.
England's next international series will be in the West Indies starting on 22 February and Director of Cricket Andrew Strauss has said the ECB hope to have made an appointment by then.
