Joe Root steps down as England cricket captain
It follows a heavy Ashes defeat in Australia, and a recent loss in the West Indies
Last updated 15th Apr 2022
Joe Root has stepped down as England Test cricket captain following a heavy Ashes defeat in Australia.
His role came under even more pressure following a recent loss to the West Indies, despite having more wins than any other skipper.
Root says it recently hit him "how much of a toll" the position was having on him - but says he's "immensely proud" to have had the responsibility.
"The most challenging decision I have had to make in my career"- Root
Root's decision comes after the 1-0 Test series defeat to West Indies last month, and the 4-0 Ashes loss to Australia in the winter.
"After returning from the Caribbean tour and having time to reflect, I have decided to step down as England men's Test captain," Root said.
"It has been the most challenging decision I have had to make in my career but having discussed this with my family and those closest to me; I know the timing is right.
"I am immensely proud to have captained my country and will look back on the past five years with enormous pride. It has been an honour to have done the job and to have been a custodian of what is the pinnacle of English cricket."
The 31-year-old, who bats for Yorkshire, holds the record for the highest number of wins as England's Test captain.
His 27 puts him one ahead of Michael Vaughan and three ahead of Sir Alastair Cook and Sir Andrew Strauss.
But he's faced a dismal 12 moves, winning just once since their opening three Tests of 2021, losing 11 and drawing five of their last 17.
Root added: "I have loved leading my country, but recently it's hit home how much of a toll it has taken on me and the impact it has had on me away from the game."
England and Wales Cricket Board now without several key figures
England are now without a captain, head coach and managing director, while the England and Wales Cricket Board seeks a new chair.
Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer said, “Joe has been an exceptional role model during his tenure, balancing the demands of Test captaincy whilst continuing to shine brilliantly through his own personal performances. He has led by example, and that has resulted in more Men's Test wins than any other England Captain, alongside a number of famous series home and away victories.
“Joe’s leadership qualities were exemplified by how he led the team through some of the most difficult and uncertain times we have known, playing during the pandemic all over the world, which speaks volumes for him as a leader and as a person.
“I know that every single person who has played or worked under Joe’s captaincy will speak of his integrity and humility as a person, as much as his determination and example as a leader.
“Off the field, Joe has been no different. It has been a privilege and a huge pleasure to have worked with him in his capacity as our Men's Test Captain, and I know he’ll continue to drive English cricket forward as a senior player, offering his wealth of experience and advice to support his successor.”
What do the fans think?
England cricket fans have taken to Twitter to share their reactions to the news.