England named famous all-rounder Ben Stokes as the captain of the Test cricket team in the hope of improving the team performance after Joro...
England named famous all-rounder Ben Stokes as the captain of the Test cricket team in the hope of improving the team performance after Jorot resignation as captain.
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| Ben Stokes considers it an honor to lead the Net Test team — Photo: Reuters |
According to Reuters, Joe Root led England to a record 64 Tests during his five-year tenure as captain, but managed to win just one of his last 17 Tests.
This included a 0-4 Ashes defeat in Australia and a 0-1 series defeat in the West Indies, after which his role as captain was weakened.
"I have no hesitation in offering Ben Stokes the role of Test captain," Rob Key said in his first major post since taking over as England managing director earlier this month.
READ ALSO: Root resigns from English Test team leadership after repeated defeats
"Ben Stokes reflects the mindset and the vision that we want to take this team to the next level of red ball cricket," Robbie added.
Ben Stokes, 30, who scored more than 5,000 runs in 79 Tests for England and took 174 wickets, described it as an "honor" to lead the Test team.
"It's a real honor and I'm excited to start the summer cricket season," said the Durham player.
Ben Stokes, one of the greatest all-rounders of his time, acknowledged Joe Root's role in the England cricket team and his position.
Read also: Jorot appointed captain of England Test team
Speaking about the key pillars of the England cricket team batting, Ben Stokes said: I want to thank
Ben Joe Stokes added: "Joe Root has been instrumental in my development as a leader in the team and now as a captain he will be an important supporter and helper for me."
Joe Root initially wanted to continue as captain, but later resigned, citing the heavy responsibility and pressure of the captaincy.
READ ALSO: Root double century, England beat India by 227 runs in first Test
Joe Root wrote in a statement on Twitter following Ben Stokes' appointment: "We have always helped each other. Congratulations friend, I will be with you every step of the way."
Joe Root also posted a picture of the two embracing on a social networking site.
Clear choice
Although Ben Stokes was a clear choice to replace Joe Root as captain, his fitness and workload have been a source of concern for the team.
He also took an indefinite break from cricket last year to focus on his mental health.
England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chief executive Tom Harrison is optimistic about a "new era" led by Ben Stokes.
Also read: Ben Stokes nominated for New Zealand of the Year award
"He has a deep and passionate commitment to representing England and he will proudly take us into a new era," said Tom Harrison in a statement.
Tom Harrison added that the coming summer is very important for our Test side and I am sure that Ben Stokes will enjoy the challenge for himself and his team.
Ben Stokes' first test as captain will be a two-match home series against his native New Zealand in June.
Ben Stokes' views as Test captain will be crucial to the future of two of England most successful Test bowlers, James Anderson and Stuart Broad, who were recently dropped from the squad.
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