Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has shared his reaction on Joe Root‘s return as England’s red-ball skipper and revealed why he is concerned about the Yorkshire cricketer who is considered as one of the country’s greatest batters. Notably, Root has been entrusted with leading England in Tests for a second time following Stokes’ retirement from international cricket, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) opting for experience over youth as the team enters a new chapter.
Ben Stokes shares biggest concern for Joe Root after his reappointment as Test captain
After announcing his retirement during England’s home Test series against New Zealand, Stokes left behind a vacancy that many expected vice-captain Harry Brook to fill. However, the ECB instead reinstated Root, who previously captained England between 2017 and 2022. Speaking about the decision, Stokes made it clear that he has complete faith in Root’s abilities and hopes the experienced batter enjoys his second spell in charge. He also expressed confidence that Root would benefit from working alongside Stephen Fleming, although the coach will not be available for the opening Test against Pakistan.
“I love Rooty, I wish him nothing but success. I hope he goes on and achieves amazing things in his role as captain. I think he’s going to really enjoy [working with] Fleming. He’s a great man. I’ve worked with him before,” Stokes said.
Despite his optimism, Stokes admitted there is one issue that continues to concern him. Having witnessed Root shoulder enormous responsibility during his first tenure as captain, the former all-rounder fears his close friend could once again place the team’s needs ahead of his own well-being. He added that he hopes Root avoids repeating the emotional and mental burden he carried during his previous spell as England captain.
“But I told Joe, my only worry is you. And that’s all I really care about now with Rooty, just because I’ve seen what he went through and how much he put himself through. For someone, he just always puts the team first and he always comes second. That’s my only concern with it, knowing what he went through last time he was in charge of the team. Because I don’t want to see that ever happen again because I care for Joe a lot,” Stokes explained.
Root prepares for Pakistan challenge in second spell as captain
Root’s return comes at a crucial time for England as they begin life after Stokes. The experienced batter, who remains one of the world’s leading Test players, now faces the task of guiding England through another rebuilding phase while continuing to deliver with the bat. His first assignment in his second stint as captain will be a three-match home Test series against Pakistan, scheduled from August 19 to September 13. However, England will begin the series without head coach Stephen Fleming, who is expected to miss the opening fixture because of family commitments in New Zealand.
Although the absence of Fleming presents an early challenge, England will be hoping Root’s vast experience and calm leadership help the side make a strong start. With the expectations of leading the national team once again resting on his shoulders, the spotlight will be firmly on Root as England look to begin a new era on a positive note.
