Joe Root reappointed as England Test captain ahead of South Africa tour
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 4:20 PM
Last updated Jul 30, 2026
Joe Root has been reappointed as England's Test captain, returning to a role he previously held from 2017 to 2022. Former captain Michael Vaughan believes this second stint could reignite Root's enthusiasm for Test cricket, especially as he adapts to changes in the team dynamic. Root stepped down after a lengthy winless streak, and now operates under interim head coach Marcus Trescothick. New Zealand's Stephen Fleming will assume the Test coaching role ahead of the winter tour to South Africa, expected to provide support to Root with his extensive experience in cricket.
- •Joe Root led England to 27 Test wins in 65 matches as captain.
- •Root's previous captaincy ended after a 10-match winless streak.
- •Stephen Fleming will take over as Test coach this winter.
- •Vaughan suggests Root requires motivation with teammate changes.
- 4:20 PMBBC Sport — England captaincy could be what Root needs - Vaughan
"Former skipper Michael Vaughan says the England Test captaincy could be "exactly what Joe Root needs" after the 35-year-old is appointed to the role for a second time.
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