Prolific batter Joe Root is all set to take over as England’s Test captain in a full-time role for the second time in his career, following the retirement of Ben Stokes in June this year.
With Harry Brook, England’s white-ball captain, in the Test squad, the selectors decided not to hand him the captaincy responsibilities following a nightclub incident in New Zealand last year. They also considered his huge workload across formats, as he leads the Three Lions in both T20Is and ODIs. With Joe Root being the best possible option available, the selectors chose him, considering the valuable experience he brings to the setup.
Joe Root Has Captained England in 65 Tests
Joe Root has captained England in 65 Test matches so far, the most by any player for his country. He also holds the record for the most wins as England’s Test captain, with 27 victories.
He recently captained England in the second Test against New Zealand in June this year at The Oval in the absence of Ben Stokes.
Root’s first tenure as England’s Test captain began in 2017 against South Africa and ended against the West Indies in 2022. He will be hoping to give his best as England’s Test captain during his second stint, which begins against Pakistan on Wednesday.
Root will be accompanied by Marcus Trescothick, who will serve as the interim head coach of the side for the Test series against Pakistan. Stephen Fleming, the newly appointed head coach, will take over the role after the Pakistan series.
England will take on Pakistan in a three-match Test series starting on August 19 at Headingley in Leeds. The second Test will be played at Lord’s from August 27–31, while Edgbaston in Birmingham will host the third and final Test, scheduled for September 9–13.