Joe Root will return as England’s Test captain following the retirement of Ben Stokes

Joe Root is set to return as England’s Test captain after Ben Stokes retired from international cricket. Root, who led England from 2017 to 2022, is expected to take charge again as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) looks for long-term stability ahead of a crucial phase that includes the home series against Pakistan and preparations for the next Ashes.

According to reports in The Athletic, the ECB is expected to confirm Root as England’s Test captain for the upcoming three-match series against Pakistan starting on August 19. The former captain is likely to remain in charge beyond the end of the series, with the role expected to extend into next year’s Ashes campaign.

Stokes announced his retirement after England’s recent Test against New Zealand, brought down the curtain on a transformative four-year spell as captain. Stokes, along with former head coach Brendon McCullum, revolutionized England’s red-ball approach through an aggressive “Bazball” philosophy, helping the side secure memorable victories against New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa, while rekindling the excitement around Test cricket.

Root is no stranger to responsibility. He captained England in 64 Tests before stepping down in 2022 after a difficult run of results. Although he won 27 caps as captain, his tenure coincided with one of England’s most difficult spells, including away defeats in Australia and the Caribbean.

ROOT’S EXPERIENCE OFFERS ENGLAND STABILITY

The 35-year-old has been a batting mainstay for England over the last four years, breaking Sir Alastair Cook’s record to become the country’s highest Test run-scorer while climbing into the top five on the all-time list of Test run-scorers. His consistency made him the clear short-term choice, despite Harry Brook serving as the team’s vice-captain.

Root also recently demonstrated his leadership skills when he returned as interim captain for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes missed the match during a disciplinary investigation. This short period has strengthened the ECB’s confidence in his ability to lead the party during the transition period.

While Root’s return is expected to provide immediate stability, questions remain over England’s long-term leadership. Brook is still seen as a future captain, but it seems the ECB are keen to allow the Yorkshire batsman to focus on his game before handing him the responsibility on a permanent basis.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

24 Jul 2026 17:02 IST