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Joe Root returns as England Test captain after four-year hiatus

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 4:23 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Joe Root returns as England Test captain after four-year hiatus

Summary

Joe Root resumes his role as England's Test captain, bringing a fresh perspective after a four-year absence. He reflects on the challenges faced during his last tenure, particularly the impact of COVID-19 restrictions, which affected his enjoyment of the role. Root expressed disappointment over Brendan McCullum's departure as Test coach but looks forward to working with new coach Stephen Fleming, whom he respects for his experience. The shift in leadership comes at a time of change for the England side as they aim to rebuild.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Joe Root is reinstated as Test captain on August 20, 2026.
•His first tenure was challenged by pandemic-related restrictions.
•Root felt unhappy in his previous captaincy role and left it in 2022.
•He praised McCullum for enhancing his skills but welcomes Fleming's leadership.
•Root believes his time away has equipped him for future challenges.

Latest Updates

4:23 PMYahoo Sports — ‘The landscape is very different now’: Joe Root explains captaincy comeback, opens up on McCullum exit and Fleming era

What they're saying

"
Joe Root is back at the helm as England's Test captain, armed with fresh insights from his hiatus. His previous stint was overshadowed by the stress of extended COVID-19 restrictions. After four years, Root's perspective has shifted, and he now values the experience gained during that time. While he felt sadness over Brendan McCullum's exit as Test coach, he looks forward to collaborating with the new coach, Stephen Fleming.
— Yahoo Sports

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