Well, as they say that change is very often on the cusp and such a central theme of life as we know it, the same could be said about what’s happening in the world of England Test match cricket. Change is imminent and was perhaps expected in the context of what transpired at the conclusion of the first Test win against New Zeeland after regular captain Ben Stokes was involved in an incident he would really consider unfortunate and unexpected!

He is calm. He is composed. And he remains one of the finest batters England has ever produced. There is little on a cricket field that Joe Root hasn't encountered before. Pressure, expectation, scrutiny and responsibility have all been familiar companions throughout his remarkable career.  

And right now, England need exactly that experience.

The reason is fairly simple.

Following the much-discussed bar brawl and altercation involving England captain Ben Stokes and an English rugby player, the all-rounder is not part of England's squad for the second Test against the visiting New Zealand side. His absence has naturally generated headlines and conversations, leaving England without one of their most influential cricketers at a crucial juncture in the series.

But while Stokes' absence creates a void, it also brings a familiar face back into the leadership role.

That man is none other than Joe Root.

As a matter of fact, Root is no stranger to captaincy. Long before the current era of Stokes' leadership, Root served as England's full-time Test captain and carried the hopes of the nation on his shoulders. While the challenges were many and the results often mixed, Root's commitment to English cricket was never in doubt.

And that is precisely why his return to the captaincy, even if only temporarily, feels both significant and reassuring.

But make no mistake, this is not merely a routine appointment.

New Zealand remain a competitive and dangerous Test side, capable of putting any opposition under pressure. England will require composure, clarity and strong decision-making if they are to maintain control against the visitors. And those are qualities Root possesses in abundance.

Over the years, he has amassed thousands of Test runs, produced memorable innings across the globe and established himself as one of the most respected figures in world cricket. Leadership may no longer be his permanent responsibility, but the experience remains very much intact.

The circumstances surrounding his return may not be ideal. England would certainly have preferred the focus to remain solely on cricket rather than off-field controversy.

Yet cricket often presents unexpected opportunities.

For Joe Root, this is another chance to guide his country. For England, it is an opportunity to demonstrate resilience despite the absence of their regular skipper. And for fans, it is a chance to watch a proven leader once again take charge of the Three Lions in the longest format of the game.

The spotlight, for now, moves from Ben Stokes to Joe Root.

So for now the big question is if the former captain can once again lead England through a challenging Test match? The coming days should provide the answer. And these could well be very interesting times ahead!