League: ICC Sport: Cricket Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Joe Root to return as England Test captain after Ben Stokes' retirement

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 24, 2026, 5:22 PM

Last updated Jul 24, 2026

Joe Root to return as England Test captain after Ben Stokes' retirement

Summary

Joe Root is poised to be reinstated as England's Test captain, succeeding Ben Stokes following Stokes' retirement from international cricket. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to announce Root's appointment in time for the upcoming three-Test series against Pakistan starting August 19. This development comes on the heels of England's significant losses this year, including a 4-1 defeat in the Ashes and a home series lost to New Zealand. Root's previous experience as captain, including a brief stint earlier this summer, has led the ECB to believe he is the best option to lead the team moving forward, as they seek to stabilize after recent upheavals in leadership within the squad.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Root is expected to captain England in the Pakistan series starting August 19.
•Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test of the New Zealand series.
•England are also seeking a new Test coach after parting with Brendon McCullum.
•Root previously led England but stepped down in 2022 after a string of poor results.
•England faces a challenging year after defeats in the Ashes and against New Zealand.

Latest Updates

5:22 PMYahoo Sports — Joe Root set to return as England Test captain after Stokes' retirement, likely to lead till Ashes

What they're saying

"
England's search for a new Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket now appears set to end with Root returning to the role.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

ICC Cricket