Joe Root named captain for England's second Test against New Zealand
Joe Root named captain for England's second Test against New Zealand
Updated at: June 17, 2026 at 07:15 AM
In a surprising turn of events, Joe Root has been named interim captain for England's second Test match against New Zealand at The Oval, starting June 17, 2026.
This decision follows a disciplinary issue involving regular captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson, who were both excluded from selection after a nightclub altercation in London on June 8.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) investigated a breach of team protocols, leading to their unavailability.
Despite Harry Brook serving as the official vice-captain, selectors turned to the veteran experience of Root, who previously captained England in a record 64 Tests.
Root, who stepped down from the role in 2022 to focus on his batting, admitted the return was unexpected, jokingly noting that he had already retired his captain’s blazer to his garage.
To bolster the team during this challenge, England has recalled speedster Jofra Archer, while newcomers Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker are set to make their Test debuts.
Root has stated he is approaching this leadership opportunity on a game-by-game basis, aiming to provide stability during a turbulent period for the squad.
