Stokes questions Brook snub as Root takes over England Test captaincy

England's Test side are going through a difficult spell, having lost the recent series against New Zealand 2-1 and previously suffered a 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia. They have not won a Test series since late 2024.

Ben Stokes has dismissed any notion of reversing his decision to retire in time for the 2027 Ashes. When asked by former team-mate Jos Buttler whether he had definitely retired, Stokes said he had.

The England Test captaincy has gone to Joe Root rather than Harry Brook, who had been promoted to vice-captain for the winter Ashes tour. Brook was involved in an off-field incident in Wellington in November, when he was struck by a bouncer the night before a white-ball match. Root took charge for the second Test against New Zealand, a match Stokes missed, and has now been given the role permanently.

Stokes had previously backed Brook as his successor. He said he understood the reasoning behind Root's appointment but wondered what message it sent to Brook. Stokes pointed out that Brook was vice-captain and yet, when the captain was unavailable, he was not chosen to lead the side. Stokes added that if someone is considered a good leader, they should simply be given the opportunity.

Root previously captained England between 2017 and 2022, leading them to a record 27 Test wins in 65 matches. He stepped down in April 2022 after a 10-wicket defeat to West Indies. At that time England had won only one of their previous 17 Tests, had suffered a humbling 4-0 Ashes loss in Australia and were dealing with Covid restrictions. Root said the job had taken a toll on his health.

Root will now work with new England Test coach Stephen Fleming, the former New Zealand captain. Stokes wished Root every success but said his one concern was Root's tendency to put the team before himself. Stokes noted that he had seen what Root went through during his previous spell as captain and did not want to see that happen again, adding that he cares about Root deeply.