Picture Credit: ECB
England Cricket Board appointed Ben Stokes as England men's Test team captain on Thursday. Stokes became the 81st England cricketer to become the team's captain, replacing Joe Root, who stepped down following consistent poor performance. The ECB Interim Chair and Chief Executive Officer approved the appointment of Ben Stokes on Tuesday evening following the recommendation by the Managing Director of England Men's Cricket, Rob Key.
Commenting on Stokes' appointment, Tom Harrison, ECB Chief Executive Officer, said: "I am delighted that Ben has agreed to become England Men's Test captain, another great achievement in his extraordinary career in an England shirt. Former skipper Joe Root was also amongst those who were quick to congratulate Ben Stokes for new responsibility and stated that he would always back him. Root tweeted, "Always got each other's backs. Congratulations mate; I'll be right with you every step."
After being appointed as Test captain, Stokes also expressed his gratitude towards Root for being the perfect brand ambassador for sports worldwide. Stokes said, "I want to thank Joe (Root) for everything he has done for English Cricket and for always being a great ambassador for the sport worldwide. He has been a massive part of my development as a leader in the dressing room, and he will continue to be a key ally for me in this role." He also admitted that he is honoured to be given a chance to lead the England Test team.
"This is a real privilege, and I am excited about getting started this summer," Stokes concluded.