The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), on Thursday, announced the appointment of all-rounder Ben Stokes as the captain of England’s men’s Test team. Stokes will replace Joe Root, who resigned from the post earlier this month after consecutive series losses, including a 0-4 thrashing in the Ashes down under.
The new managing director of England men’s cricket Rob Key met with Stokes earlier this week, and the Christchurch-born has now agreed to take on the position. Stokes will become the 81st captain of the English side in the longest format.
“Durham’s Ben Stokes has been appointed captain of the England Men’s Test team by the England & Wales Cricket Board. He succeeds Joe Root in becoming the 81st captain of the England Men’s Test team. The ECB Interim Chair and Chief Executive Officer approved the appointment on Tuesday evening following the recommendation by the Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, Rob Key,” ECB said in its official release.
Stokes, who made his Test debut in December 2013, has so far played 79 Tests for England. He was named vice-captain in February 2017 and also stood-in as skipper when Root was absent for the birth of his second child in the summer of 2020.
The Durham all-rounder has 5061 Test runs to his name at an average of 35.89, and claimed 174 wickets as well. After becoming the new skipper, Stokes shared his reaction, stating he was ‘honoured’ to become captain, and also thanked former leader Root for the part he played in his development as a leader.
“I am honoured to be given the chance to lead the England Test team. This is a real privilege, and I’m excited about getting started this summer,” said Stokes as quoted by SkySports.
“I want to thank Joe (Root) for everything he has done for English cricket and for always being a great ambassador for the sport all across the world. He has been a massive part of my development as a leader in the dressing room, and he will continue to be a key ally for me in this role,” he added.
