Joe Root returns as England Test captain, cites Stephen Fleming appointment as key factor

Published Aug 2, 05:21 AM UTC

Joe Root has been named England Test captain for a second spell, replacing Ben Stokes who retired after the home series against New Zealand. Root stated that the appointment of former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming as England's Test coach was a 'big reason' for his decision to return. Fleming, who coached Chennai Super Kings in the IPL for 17 years, succeeds Brendon McCullum, who remains England's white-ball coach. Root, 35, praised the attacking mindset fostered under Stokes and McCullum, calling the last four years 'the most fun' of his professional career, and hinted he and Fleming would retain that approach. England are set to host Pakistan for a three-Test series starting August 19 in Leeds.