Ben Stokes is named England Test captain as all-rounder calls it a ‘real privilege’ as he replaces Joe Root as skipper

England’s red-ball revolution has continued with Ben Stokes named as their new Test captain on Thursday morning.

The 30-year-old replaces Joe Root in the role – who stepped down earlier this month following England’s 1-0 series defeat against the West Indies in March which saw them stretch their winless run to nine matches.

Stokes was the frontrunner for the role having been Root’s vice-captain and has labelled his appointment as an ‘honour’.

Ben Stokes ‘honoured’ to become England Test captain

‘I am honoured to be given the chance to lead the England Test team,’ he said.

‘This is a real privilege, and I’m excited about getting started this summer.

‘I want to thank Joe [Root] for everything he has done for English cricket and for always being a great ambassador for the sport all across the world.

‘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.’

Rob Key had ‘no hesitation’ in recommending Stokes

The all-rounder becomes the 81st Test captain of the England side with the decision recommended to the ECB board on Tuesday by managing director Rob Key.

‘I had no hesitation in offering the role of Test captain to Ben,’ said Key.

‘He epitomises the mentality and approach we want to take this team forward into the next era of red-ball cricket. I am delighted that he has accepted, and he is ready for the added responsibility and the honour. He thoroughly deserves the opportunity.’

Stokes made his Test debut in December 2013 and has represented his country on 79 occasions at this level. He was named vice-captain in February 2017 and also stood in as captain when Root was absent for the birth of his second child in the summer of 2020.

The Durham star currently has 5,061 Test runs at an average of 35.89. He has taken 174 wickets with the ball and is among the best all-rounders in the world.