Ben Stokes Questions England's Decision on Harry Brook's Captaincy Role

In a recent podcast, former England captain Ben Stokes voiced his concerns about the decision not to appoint Harry Brook as Test captain, despite his role as vice-captain. Stokes highlighted the importance of giving leadership opportunities to potential leaders, reflecting on his own unexpected rise to captaincy. He also expressed his support for Joe Root, the current captain, while emphasizing the sacrifices Root has made for the team. As Root resumes his role, Stokes hopes for his success and well-being, noting the challenges of leadership in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 4, 2026, 23:50 IST

Stokes Critiques England's Leadership Choices

London [UK], August 4: Former England captain Ben Stokes has expressed his concerns regarding the decision not to elevate Harry Brook to the role of Test captain, despite Brook holding the position of vice-captain.

Stokes emphasized that if a player is seen as a potential leader, they should be given the chance to lead. He reflected on his own limited experience when he was appointed captain, noting that he was trusted to take on the responsibility.

Following Stokes' retirement from international cricket, Joe Root has resumed his role as Test captain.

On the For The Love of Cricket podcast, Stokes remarked, "If you believe someone has the potential to be a strong captain or leader, just let them take the reins. Brook was named vice-captain, and even when I was absent for that Test against New Zealand, I wondered, 'Why isn't Brooky captaining? He's the vice-captain.'"

He acknowledged the reasoning behind the decision but questioned the message it sends to Brook, stating, "The captain is unavailable, yet Brook isn't leading. I had no prior leadership experience when I took over, but it was believed I could be a good captain."

Stokes also conveyed his best wishes to Root in his captaincy role, expressing concern for Root's well-being after observing the sacrifices he has made for the team. He praised Root for consistently prioritizing the team's needs over his own.

"I wish him nothing but success. I hope he achieves remarkable things as captain. My only concern is for him, as I've seen the lengths he goes to for the team. He always puts the team first, often at his own expense," Stokes added.

Root, who is England's most successful Test captain with 27 victories from 65 matches, returns to the captaincy after previously leading the team from 2017 to 2022. He also served as interim captain during the recent Test against New Zealand at The Oval.