Joe Root named England Test captain again, bypassing Harry Brook
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 6:16 AM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
England has appointed Joe Root as interim captain for the second Test against New Zealand, replacing vice-captain Harry Brook. The decision follows the omissions of Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson due to disciplinary issues related to a nightclub incident. Critics have raised concerns regarding the leadership succession within the team, specifically questioning Brook's lack of captaincy opportunities despite his role as vice-captain. Root previously captained England from 2017 to 2022 and returns to leadership during a tumultuous time for the squad. The team is looking for stability amid ongoing scrutiny of its decision-making and leadership structure as they navigate these suspensions.
- •Joe Root returns as England's interim Test captain.
- •Harry Brook is bypassed despite being vice-captain.
- •Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson excluded for disciplinary reasons.
- •Critics question England's leadership succession plan.
- •Root previously captained England from 2017 to 2022.
- 4:44 AMYahoo Sports — 'It's a bit of a mess': Cricket World reacts as England bypass Harry Brook for Joe Root Test captaincy after Ben Stokes omission
"England's decision to hand Joe Root the captaincy over vice-captain Harry Brook has sparked debate, with many questioning the team's leadership succession plan after Ben Stokes' omission.
"Ben Stokes' tenure as England Test captain is in jeopardy - and vice-captain Harry Brook seemed to be in pole position to take over.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 11, 2026, 4:44 AM'It's a bit of a mess': Cricket World reacts as England bypass Harry Brook for Joe Root Test captaincy after Ben Stokes omission
England's decision to hand Joe Root the captaincy over vice-captain Harry Brook has sparked debate, with many questioning the team's leadership succession plan after Ben Stokes' omission.
- Sky Sports—Brook, Root, or Stokes: What now for England's Test captaincy?
Ben Stokes' tenure as England Test captain is in jeopardy - and vice-captain Harry Brook seemed to be in pole position to take over.
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