In Pics: England reveal greatest Test XI ahead of historic 1000th match

Alastair Cook is England's most capped (156) test player. He also has the most runs by any England test batsman - 12,145 runs with 32 centuries. Cook also captain the side for eight years and became England's longest-serving captain. (Image: Reuters)

Len Hutton, England’s first professional Test captain, played 79 test matches scoring 6971 runs with an average of 56.67. Hutton's record is even more astonishing considering he broke his arm during the Second World War and had to readjust his technique and use a shortened bat for the remainder of his career. (Source: Wikipedia)

Described as one of the most stylish left-handed batsmen of his era, David Gower (left) played 117 Test matches and 114 One Day Internationals (ODI) scoring 8231 and 3170 runs, respectively. He was one of the most capped and high scoring players for England during his period. (Iamge: AFP)

Kevin Pietersen, the former South African-born captain of the English side received the most number of votes. The one-of-a-kind batsman was a controversial figure but there was no denying his talent. He played 104 test matches and 136 ODIs for England scoring 8,181 and 4,440 runs respectively. He clashed with the administration throughout his time as a player and became known as the ultimate rebel in English cricket. (Image: AFP)  

Root, the current England captain, is considered one of the best batsmen of this era. In his six years, the 27-year-old has already notched 13 tons and played a part in two Ashes series wins. (Image: Reuters)

Ian Botham had to be on this list- he was one of the biggest sporting personality to come out of the island. He scored 5,200 runs and took 383 wickets for England establishing him as one of the greatest all-rounders ever. However, it was his leadership capibility and larger-than-life persona that defines him the most. (Image: AFP)

Alan Knott has more dismissals for England than any wicket-keeper. He claimed 269 dismissals in his 14 years behind the stumps. His ability with the bat was another asset, scoring 4,389 runs at an average of 32.75. (Source: Alchetron)

Graeme Swann is perhaps the greatest spinner for England. He played only 60 matches for England but ended up picking 255 Test wickets. He was also part of the England sides that won three consecutive Ashes series playing a significant role. (Image: AFP)

Fred Trueman was the first cricketer from any nation to take 300 Test wickets. He took 307 wickets in his test career. (Image: AFP)

James Anderson is not only the highest wicket taker but also the best swing bowler in England’s history. He has taken 540 wickets- second highest by any quick bowler in Test history. He has been serving the country for 13 years now and still is one of the best new ball bowlers in the world. (Image: Reuters)

Bob Willis spearheaded England's attack for 13 years. Despite a chronic knee problem which required surgery while in his mid-20s and caused him discomfort throughout his career, Willis ended up taking 325 wickets in his career. (Image: AFP)