Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Joe Root is reportedly set to replace Ben Stokes as England Test captain, four years after handing the role to the retiring all-rounder. The 35-year-old is expected to lead England from the home series against Pakistan, beginning on August 19, through next year’s Ashes series.
England selectors have few established alternatives after Harry Brook was ruled out of consideration and Ollie Pope lost his Test place during the recent Ashes campaign. Harry Brook already captains England in one-day international and Twenty20 international cricket, while officials are reluctant to add another responsibility.
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Joe Root Emerges as Clear Choice
Joe Root captained England in a record 64 Tests between 2016 and 2022, recording 27 wins, 27 defeats and 11 draws. His first spell included Ashes defeats in Australia in 2017-18 and 2021-22, plus a drawn home series in 2019.
Joe Root resigned after a difficult tour of the West Indies, explaining the personal cost of the position.
“I have loved leading my country - but recently, it’s hit home how much of a toll it has taken on me and the impact it has had on me away from the game,” Joe Root said at the time.
Joe Root has averaged 54.16 since leaving the captaincy, scoring 16 of his 41 Test centuries during that period. He has 14,114 Test runs and sits behind only Sachin Tendulkar on the career scoring list.
The captaincy decision is also affecting England’s search for a new Test coach after Brendon McCullum’s departure. Jonathan Trott and Richard Dawson have emerged as candidates, while Justin Langer is reportedly not under consideration.
Official England cricket updates are available through the England and Wales Cricket Board.