Joe Root has been named as England’s Test captain on Monday (February 13) with Ben Stokes appointed as his deputy. Root was understood to have been interviewed by England’s Director of Cricket Andrew Strauss last week for the top job. Strauss also met Stokes and senior pacer Stuart Broad to fetch his inputs on England’s results in the Test arena in the last few months.
The process to appoint the new skipper began last week after Alastair Cook had stepped down from his role following the 4-0 loss in India. Cook had led England in 59 Tests, the most by any captain in the country’s history. Root has captained in only four first-class matches so far in his career but has been Cook’s deputy since 2015. He has scored more than 4500 runs in his 53-match Test career at an impressive average of 52.80.
“It is a huge honour to be given the England Test captaincy,” Root said following his appointment. “I feel privileged, humbled and very excited.
“We have a very good group of players and I’m looking forward to leading them out in the summer, building on Alastair’s achievements and making the most of our talents in the years ahead. The senior guys in the changing room play a very influential role and whilst there’s a natural progression for me it’s a huge support to know that they are there to help and advise.”
Colin Graves, England Cricket Board’s Chairman, hailed Root as the ‘perfect choice’ to become England’s 80th Test captain.
“Joe Root is the perfect choice for England Test captain,” Graves said. “I’m delighted that he has accepted the role and will now help to take the team to the next level.
“The role of Test captain is an honour and a responsibility which he thoroughly deserves. When I spoke to him last night you could feel the excitement and sense the pride – he can’t wait to get started. Joe is a fine player and a fine person who has the respect of the players, the selectors and all at the ECB. He also has a changing room with experienced players and leaders who will support him from the start.”
Andrew Strauss, England’s Director of Cricket, revealed that Root had no hesitation in accepting the offer once the decision was made by himself and the selectors. “Joe is the right man to be our next Test Captain and I’m thrilled that he has accepted the role,” Strauss said.
“After Alastair Cook stepped down last week, the Selectors and I engaged in the proper process to appoint his successor. Following informal and formal conversations with members of the Test team at the end of the week, the offer was put to Joe and he accepted immediately.
“I’m also delighted that Ben Stokes will take over from Joe as vice-captain of the team. He has real presence and influence within the team environment that serve as a great source of support for Joe. I have no doubts that the responsibility will also help Ben to continue his rapid rise as a world class all-rounder.”
Root’s first assignment as skipper will be the four-match Test series at home against South Africa in July. England will also be touring Australia at the end of the year for the Ashes series.
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