Amid growing rumours in Westminster that outgoing England cricket captain Andrew Strauss may turn his attentions to politics, Labrokes has slashed its odds. They are now offering 12/1 that he will be the Tory candidate at the Corby by-election.
Kevin Pietersen had mixed success as he attempted to weather the storm of Andrew Strauss's retirement from cricket.
The ousted batsman made no comment in response to news of Strauss's decision following their well-publicised falling out.
But moments later a heavy downpour left the Surrey man training in the rain in Somerset today.
Staff at Alastair Cook's old school in Bedfordshire have been celebrating after he was named the new Test captain of the England cricket team.
Bedford School already has a room dedicated to its star ex-pupil, complete with his old bats and images from his school days. ITV Anglia has the full report.
Former England spinner Phil Tufnell has said he was surprised to learn of Andrew Strauss's retirement, but backed Alastair Cook to live up to his predecessor as England's Test captain.
Wishing Straussy the best of luck in retirement. He's been a great player, a credit to England and got them to number 1 in the world...
From @philtufnell on Twitter:I was surprised by the news. Thought he might go on to another Ashes series, but he's had a brilliant career.
From @philtufnell on Twitter:Very pleased for another of the @paragonsm boys, Alastair Cook getting the job though. I'm sure he'll do a great job.
From @philtufnell on Twitter:Former Australian international Marcus North has joked on Twitter that Kevin Pietersen has scored a minor victory following the retirement of Andrew Strauss from all forms of cricket.
But North said Pietersen still has a long way to go to return to the England side after being axed over messages he sent to the South African team.
Strauss has denied any bad blood between him and Pietersen affected his decision to stand down.
Strauss stepping down as captain and/or retiring from International Cricket....That's 1 to KP 10 to go!
From @Marcus_North on Twitter:Andrew Strauss has stepped down as England Test captain and also retired from professional cricket, with Alastair Cook taking his place as captain.
Cricketers paid their tributes to Strauss this afternoon, whose 24 wins from 50 matches makes him the second most successful captain behind Michael Vaughan.
Really sad to hear Straussy has called it a day. He's done so much for this England team not just as captain but also as a player....
From @JimmyAnderson9 on Twitter:Can't believe Straussy didn't Cry..... Lol
From @VaughanCricket on Twitter:Big news in England, Strauss quits international cricket !! Well done on a great career!
From @7polly7 on Twitter:
Andrew Strauss has announced his retirement after leading the England cricket team to 24 Test wins including two Ashes victories.
Read the full storyAndrew Strauss made this short statement announcing his retirement "from all forms of cricket". Read the full statement here.
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...
– andrew straussI am extremely proud of everything I have achieved as a cricketer, and I have found myself very fortunate to play in an era when some of English cricket's greatest moments have occurred.
I have loved every minute of it and all that remains is for me to wish Andy [Flower], Alastair [Cook] and the rest of the team the very best for the coming months. I will be an interested spectator.
Andrew Strauss' successor as captain of the England cricket team, Alastair Cook, said he has got "huge boots to fill".
He said there was a sad atmosphere in the England dressing room when the news was announced.
But he added that "we have to move on quickly unfortunately" because there is a busy season ahead.
Asked how he would respond to those who think he is still the best captain for England, he said he was flattered by such a suggestion but that it only reinforces his decision. He said: "I would hate to feel I've outstayed my welcome".
