Root returns as England Test captain on game-by-game basis
8 reported2 unconfirmed
Joe Root has returned to the England Test captaincy on a game-by-game basis, replacing Ben Stokes for the second Test against New Zealand after Stokes was left out of the squad for breaching a team curfew. Root, who previously led England in a record 64 Tests between 2017 and 2022, said he is in a "very different place" now and has been "slightly envious" of Stokes for getting to work alongside coach Brendon McCullum. The 35-year-old said he has spoken to Stokes since the incident but kept their conversations private, and maintained that Stokes still holds the respect of the dressing room. Root was chosen over vice-captain Harry Brook, who was overlooked amid his own off-field controversy in Wellington last winter. He will lead an inexperienced team including debutants Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker, with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's availability uncertain due to his wife expecting their second child. Root said he only had a "little think" before agreeing to return, focusing on what is best for the team and his personal life.
What’s reported
Joe Root is taking the England Test captaincy on a "game-by-game basis" for the second Test against New Zealand.
Root said he has been "slightly envious" of Ben Stokes for working alongside coach Brendon McCullum.
Stokes was left out of England's squad after breaching the team's midnight curfew following the first Test victory.
Stokes was present when a member of England's security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.
Root was chosen over vice-captain Harry Brook, who was overlooked due to his own off-field controversy in Wellington last winter.
Debutants Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker will play in the second Test.
Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's availability is unclear; if unavailable, Somerset's James Rew will debut.
Root said he would have rated the chances of becoming skipper again a "0.1% chance" earlier this year.
Open questions
Whether wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will be available for the second Test.
The specific details of the conversations between Root and Stokes.
Key figures
Joe Root, England Test captain
Ben Stokes, former captain left out of squad
Brendon McCullum, England coach
Harry Brook, vice-captain overlooked
Jordan Cox, debutant
Sonny Baker, debutant
Jamie Smith, wicketkeeper
James Rew, potential debutant
Sources: BBC News
