ONE of the qualities of leadership is knowing the right time to stand aside – and that is particularly pertinent in the world of sport.

Alastair Cook insists he will not resign as England captain this summer despite yet another embarrassing defeat – this time by India at Lord’s.

Cook’s record as captain is increasingly bleak. He has not made a century in 27 innings and has failed to lead his team to victory in nine Tests.

An average of 14.33 runs in five Tests this year is woeful and, with his tactics in complete array, there is no sign of an upturn in England’s fortunes.

Cook’s priority should be to concentrate on regaining his form as the outstanding batsman he has proved himself to be. To do that, he needs to unburden himself of the captaincy – or have the decision taken away from him.

One way or another, it is time for a change.

Contrast Cook’s refusal to “walk” with Steven Gerrard’s dignified acceptance that his international career is over. At the age of 34, and on the back of another bitterly disappointing England failure in a major tournament, Gerrard has admitted that his body can no longer cope with both international and club football.

Although his international achievements have fallen well short of his glittering career with Liverpool, Gerrard has been a credit to his country.

He has collected 114 caps since making his England debut against Ukraine in 2000, and proved to be one of our few truly world-class performers.

England’s exit after just two games in Brazil is a sad end for an admirable player who always gave his all and served his country with distinction.

But Steven Gerrard has earned the right to go out on his own terms. He has big boots to fill.