ECB name Ben Stokes as England's Test captain after Joe Root's decision to give up leadership reins

England's star all-rounder, Ben Stokes has been appointed as the new captain of England’s Test Cricket Team. With that, Stokes become the 81st captain of England’s men’s Test side. Notably, after England's 1-0 defeat against West Indies in their last Test series, Joe Root stepped down as the captain of the England Test Team. Post his decision, Stokes, who was the Test vice-captain, was the primary candidate to take up the role.

Following the recommendation by the Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, Rob Key, the ECB Interim Chair and Chief Executive Officer approved the appointment on Tuesday evening.

“I had no hesitation in offering the role of Test captain to Ben.” Managing Director of England’s Men’s Cricket, Rob Key said.

“He epitomises the mentality and approach we want to take this team forward into the next era of red-ball cricket. I am delighted that he has accepted, and he is ready for the added responsibility and the honour. He thoroughly deserves the opportunity.” He added.

Meanwhile, Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am delighted that Ben has agreed to become England Men’s Test captain, which is another great achievement in his extraordinary career in an England shirt.

“He cares deeply and passionately about what it means to represent England and he will lead us into a new era with great pride. It’s an important summer for our Test side and Ben will I am sure relish the challenge before him and his team.”

Prior to the announcement, Stokes was Joe Root’s deputy in Test Cricket. However, with the team suffering a series of defeats consistently for the last couple of years, Joe Root decided to step down from the role. Stokes, thus, has been promoted to lead England’s Test team.

England Men’s Test Captain, Ben Stokes after the appointment said, “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. 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.”

Ben Stokes made his first steps in Test Cricket in December 2013. He has represented England in 79 Tests so far and has managed to score 5061 runs at an average of 35.9. Besides, he has picked 174 wickets at an average of 32.1.