Strauss' timing is impeccable

So after exactly 100 Tests, the curtain falls on Andrew Strauss' career.

But was it the right time to go? In the middle of an ODI series and before the World T20? And with the Kevin Pietersen mess hanging over England.

Like his timing in the middle, Andrew Strauss' timing is impeccable.

There is never a perfect time to go but if he knew that he was unlikely to make it through to next year's back-to-

back Ashes series, now is the right time.

It allows for a good bedding in period not only for the new captain Alastair Cook but for whoever replaces him as opener to have a good run in. Or at worst case scenario for England to try a couple of options; probably either moving Jonathan Trott to open or bringing in either Joe Root or possibly Nick Compton.

Cook has demonstrated his ability as a captain, he has surprised many in his successful leadership of the ODI side. Strauss will have noted that and smartly assessed that Cook is ready to be Test captain. He wouldn't have moved on if he'd have felt that the man behind him wasn't going to be able to cut it just yet.

The harsh reality is, as he acknowledged, his form just simply hasn't been good enough. Strauss has had one good series in the last five and whilst his role has been so much much more than simply as an opening batsman, the time is right to look for the opener who is England's more medium term future.

Strauss was everything you'd want from a captain, says Darren Gough

This decision will have come from him - purely from him. It's typical of Strauss not wanting to make anything difficult for his employers. Going before there was any need to have conversations about pushing him.

His retirement statement showed the mark of Strauss as a man - stating he was aware of his lack of form and not wanting to be a passenger in this side.

Of course, Strauss brought so much more than his runs. His partnership with Flower was about as complementary as a coach/captain relationship could have been and his quiet calm leadership brought out the best in everyone. Even Kevin Pietersen until recently.

This decision wasn't hastened by the KP soap opera. It will no doubt have battered Strauss as it would have anyone but everything Strauss does and has always done is for the benefit of English Cricket.

He has been a marvellous opening batsman and truly wonderful leader who took England to the number one rank, led them to Ashes victories home and away. Strauss' side gave something special to all supporters of English cricket.

As his timing of the ball has faltered, his timing off the pitch has remained utterly impeccable. He'll be missed but he will be thanked for going at the right time with dignity, integrity and with his head held high.

Find out what current and former player are saying on Twitter