Joe Root named England Test captain ahead of Pakistan series
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 9:41 PM
Last updated Aug 6, 2026
Joe Root has been reinstated as the captain of the England Test cricket team following Ben Stokes' retirement. National selector Marcus North cited reasons for the decision, emphasizing the workload on Harry Brook in white-ball formats. Root's upcoming leadership will commence with a Test match against Pakistan at Headingley on August 19. North highlighted Root's extensive experience, as he previously led England in 64 Tests, and stated they are fortunate to have him return during this transitional phase.
- •Joe Root named Test captain for upcoming series against Pakistan.
- •Marcus North explains Root's appointment over Harry Brook.
- •Root led England in a record 64 Tests before stepping down in 2022.
- •Brook's leadership is focused on white-ball formats ahead of the World Cup.
- •Root starts his second spell as captain on August 19.
- 9:41 PMYahoo Sports — 'Huge ask': ECB explains why Harry Brook missed out as Joe Root returns as Test captain
- 3:04 PMYahoo Sports — 'Blessed to have someone like Joe': England national selector reveals why Root got Test captaincy over Harry Brook
"Joe Root's return as England's Test captain has caught the cricket world off guard, but the England and Wales Cricket Board deemed his seasoned experience essential for the team's current challenges. While Harry Brook is making strides as a leader of the white-ball teams, focus remains on Root to stabilize the Test side during this transitional phase. Brook is seen as a potential successor, albeit not just yet.
"England selector Marcus North explains why Joe Root, not Harry Brook, was chosen as Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement, and reveals when Brook could eventually take charge.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 9:41 PM'Huge ask': ECB explains why Harry Brook missed out as Joe Root returns as Test captain
Joe Root's return as England's Test captain has caught the cricket world off guard, but the England and Wales Cricket Board deemed his seasoned experience essential for the team's current challenges. While Harry Brook is making strides as a leader of the white-ball teams, focus remains on Root to stabilize the Test side during this transitional phase. Brook is seen as a potential successor, albeit not just yet.
- Yahoo SportsAug 6, 2026, 3:04 PM'Blessed to have someone like Joe': England national selector reveals why Root got Test captaincy over Harry Brook
England selector Marcus North explains why Joe Root, not Harry Brook, was chosen as Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement, and reveals when Brook could eventually take charge.
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