Retirement happens to every athlete in every sport. At the end of each season, Olympic cycle or due to other circumstances, countless athletes are faced with what may be the most difficult decision of their careers. And those in a position to make that decision for themselves are the lucky ones.

Preparations for England’s first test in Pakistan have been hit by an outbreak of illness amongst the touring party. Talks are being held over the possibility of delaying the start of the series by a day as 14 members of the England team and staff have been affected.

Jimmy Anderson will once again lead England’s pace attack as they take on South Africa at Lords. This is his first Test match since his 40th birthday, yet despite his advancing years, the end of his career doesn’t seem to be coming any time soon.

The captaincy has been somewhat of a poisoned chalice for past English all-rounders. Ian Botham and Andrew Flintoff’s brief tenures in the role are the obvious examples. Despite being dominant performers, both were unable to transfer that dominance into successful captaincy. It is often said that the burden of captaincy inhibits a player’s ability to play. It creates a greater cognitive load and inhibits the ability to focus on their usual role. Is there any evidence to support this observation?

2019’s summer of cricket will live long in the memory of many England and maybe a few Australian and New Zealand fans. The World Cup, for the first time, was decided via a super over while incredible innings from Ben Stokes and Steve Smith saw the Ashes swing one way then the other over the course of 5 test series.