<p>England Test captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ben-stokes" rel="dofollow">Ben Stokes</a> is not expected to play in the early rounds of the County Championship as he battles to be fit to lead England, his Durham coach Ryan Campbell said on Monday.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 33-year-old is recovering from hamstring surgery after breaking down in New Zealand in December, his second hamstring tear in five months. <o:p></o:p>But the all-rounder is not yet ready for action in the four-day domestic championship, which starts on Friday.<o:p></o:p></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">England captain Ben Stokes continuing his rehab at Chester-le-Street.<br><br>More hard yards as he recovers from hamstring surgery ahead of a big summer. <a href="https://t.co/WuTLO0ciyk">pic.twitter.com/WuTLO0ciyk</a></p>
&mdash; Rory Dollard (@thervd) <a href="https://twitter.com/thervd/status/1906701882606616980?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ecb-contemplates-retiring-mak-pataudi-trophy-ahead-of-india-england-tests-8911054" rel="dofollow">ECB contemplates retiring MAK Pataudi Trophy ahead of India-England Tests</a></strong></p>
<p>England host Zimbabwe in May, with a five-Test series against India to follow. Later in the year they head to Australia for a five-match Ashes series.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Durham have six matches in the top tier of the County Championship before the Zimbabwe Test.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>Campbell, who is also without England quicks Brydon Carse (toe) and Mark Wood (knee), made it clear no risks would be taken.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>"When you look at Carse, Stokes and Wood, at this stage they're probably not likely to play for us. My expectation is that it'll be zero -- anything else is an added bonus," he said. "They're all coming back from serious injuries. The facts are that they need to get up and running by the time the Test matches start.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>"But what we know about Stokesy is that he's here nearly every single day working his butt off. The guy had hamstring surgery and was in the next day lifting weights, which I couldn't believe. He sets the bar, wherever he is."<o:p></o:p></p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/as-if-one-was-not-enough-england-legend-andrew-flintoff-eldest-son-corey-flintoff-set-for-top-flight-cricket-rocky-8910110" rel="dofollow">As if one was not enough, England legend Andrew Flintoff&rsquo;s other son, Corey, set for top-flight cricket</a></strong></p>
<p>Campbell has pledged to protect Carse, 29, who has impressed since making his Test debut against Pakistan in October 2024, taking 27 wickets at an average of 19.85 in five matches.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>"I think Brydon Carse is probably the number one priority for England right now," he said. "With what he's shown in Test cricket, he's born for that sort of stuff. There's 11 Tests over the summer and winter, and I think he's going to be number one on England's list to make sure that he's ready to go for that.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p>"Does that mean he's going to play for us? I'm not so sure.... We've known about his foot problems for a year now. It's not new, but he needs to get it right if he's going to be playing a lot of Test cricket."</p>
<p><em><strong>Disclaimer:</strong><span>&nbsp;</span>This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>

Cricket, Sports: Ben Stokes is recovering from hamstring surgery after breaking down in New Zealand in December, his second hamstring tear in five months.

England Test captain Ben Stokes is not expected to play in the early rounds of the County Championship as he battles to be fit to lead England, his Durham coach Ryan Campbell said on Monday. The 33-year-old is recovering from hamstring surgery after breaking down in New Zealand in December, his second hamstring tear in five months. But the all-rounder is not yet ready for action in the four-day domestic championship, which starts on Friday. England captain Ben Stokes continuing his rehab at Chester-le-Street. More hard yards as he recovers from hamstring surgery ahead of a big summer. pic.twitter.com/WuTLO0ciyk — Rory Dollard (@thervd) March 31, 2025 Also read | ECB contemplates retiring MAK Pataudi Trophy ahead of India-England Tests England host Zimbabwe in May, with a five-Test series against India to follow. Later in the year they head to Australia for a five-match Ashes series. Durham have six matches in the top tier of the County Championship before the Zimbabwe Test. Campbell, who is also without England quicks Brydon Carse (toe) and Mark Wood (knee), made it clear no risks would be taken. "When you look at Carse, Stokes and Wood, at this stage they're probably not likely to play for us. My expectation is that it'll be zero -- anything else is an added bonus," he said. "They're all coming back from serious injuries. The facts are that they need to get up and running by the time the Test matches start. "But what we know about Stokesy is that he's here nearly every single day working his butt off. The guy had hamstring surgery and was in the next day lifting weights, which I couldn't believe. He sets the bar, wherever he is." Also read | As if one was not enough, England legend Andrew Flintoff’s other son, Corey, set for top-flight cricket Campbell has pledged to protect Carse, 29, who has impressed since making his Test debut against Pakistan in October 2024, taking 27 wickets at an average of 19.85 in five matches. "I think Brydon Carse is probably the number one priority for England right now," he said. "With what he's shown in Test cricket, he's born for that sort of stuff. There's 11 Tests over the summer and winter, and I think he's going to be number one on England's list to make sure that he's ready to go for that. "Does that mean he's going to play for us? I'm not so sure.... We've known about his foot problems for a year now. It's not new, but he needs to get it right if he's going to be playing a lot of Test cricket." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

England Test captain Ben Stokes to miss early county games in fitness battle

<p>England Test team captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of a hamstring tear as confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday (Dec 23).</p>

<p>Stokes, who was recently excluded from England’s white-ball series against India and the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is expected to return in May for the Test series against Zimbabwe.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old will also miss the upcoming SA20 season having limped off during the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!<br />
<br />
I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt.<br />
There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body<br />
<br />
See you on the field to fuck some shit up</p>
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1871285781014384858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Stokes out for three months</strong></h2>

<p>"Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!</p>

<p>"I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body. See you on the field to fuck some shit up," Stokes wrote on his X handle.</p>

<p>In the England squad announced on Sunday (Dec 22), the veteran all-rounder was not considered for the Champions Trophy 2025 while also sitting out of the India tour prior to the big ICC tournament.</p>

<p>Stokes has been struggling with a hamstring injury in the last few months and felt the recurrence of it during the New Zealand tour.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>

<p>While Stokes sits out of the upcoming tours in the New Year, another veteran Joe Root has returned to the ODI set-up.</p>

<p>Root has not played for England since the 2023 ODI World Cup, however, with England pushing for another ICC trophy in white-ball cricket, Root’s inclusion comes as a big X-factor. He was part of the England side that won the 2019 ODI World Cup and played a key role for Eoin Morgan’s side.</p>

<h2><strong>England squad for Champions Trophy</strong></h2>

<p>Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, and Mark Wood.</p>


England Test team captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of a hamstring tear as confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday (Dec 23).

England Test team captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of a hamstring tear as confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday (Dec 23). Stokes, who was recently excluded from England’s white-ball series against India and the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is expected to return in May for the Test series against Zimbabwe. The 33-year-old will also miss the upcoming SA20 season having limped off during the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton. Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body See you on the field to fuck some shit up — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) December 23, 2024 × Stokes out for three months "Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! "I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body. See you on the field to fuck some shit up," Stokes wrote on his X handle. In the England squad announced on Sunday (Dec 22), the veteran all-rounder was not considered for the Champions Trophy 2025 while also sitting out of the India tour prior to the big ICC tournament. Stokes has been struggling with a hamstring injury in the last few months and felt the recurrence of it during the New Zealand tour. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain While Stokes sits out of the upcoming tours in the New Year, another veteran Joe Root has returned to the ODI set-up. Root has not played for England since the 2023 ODI World Cup, however, with England pushing for another ICC trophy in white-ball cricket, Root’s inclusion comes as a big X-factor. He was part of the England side that won the 2019 ODI World Cup and played a key role for Eoin Morgan’s side. England squad for Champions Trophy Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, and Mark Wood.

England Test captain Ben Stokes ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of hamstring tear

<p><span class="region">London, UK</span>
<p>England Test team captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of a hamstring tear as confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday (Dec 23).</p></p>
<p>Stokes, who was recently excluded from England’s white-ball series against India and the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is expected to return in May for the Test series against Zimbabwe.</p>
<p>The 33-year-old will also miss the upcoming SA20 season having limped off during the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton.</p>
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<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!</p>
<p>I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt.</p>
<p>There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body</p>
<p>See you on the field to fuck some shit up</p>
<p>— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://twitter.com/benstokes38/status/1871285781014384858?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Stokes out for three months</strong></h2>
<p>"Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!!</p>
<p>"I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body. See you on the field to fuck some shit up," Stokes wrote on his X handle.</p>
<p>In the England squad announced on Sunday (Dec 22), the veteran all-rounder was not considered for the Champions Trophy 2025 while also sitting out of the India tour prior to the big ICC tournament.</p>
<p>Stokes has been struggling with a hamstring injury in the last few months and felt the recurrence of it during the New Zealand tour.</p>
<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-head-coach-andrew-mcdonald-confirms-sam-konstas-debut-for-boxing-day-test-travis-head-uncertain-786336">BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain</a></strong></p>
<p>While Stokes sits out of the upcoming tours in the New Year, another veteran Joe Root has returned to the ODI set-up.</p>
<p>Root has not played for England since the 2023 ODI World Cup, however, with England pushing for another ICC trophy in white-ball cricket, Root’s inclusion comes as a big X-factor. He was part of the England side that won the 2019 ODI World Cup and played a key role for Eoin Morgan’s side.</p>
<h2><strong>England squad for Champions Trophy</strong></h2>
<p>Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, and Mark Wood.</p>


Ben Stokes, who was recently excluded from England’s white-ball series against India and the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is expected to return in May for the Test series against Zimbabwe. The 33-year-old will also miss the upcoming SA20 season, having limped off during the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton.



London, UK England Test team captain Ben Stokes has been ruled out for three months owing to recurrence of a hamstring tear as confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday (Dec 23). Stokes, who was recently excluded from England’s white-ball series against India and the Champions Trophy 2025 squad is expected to return in May for the Test series against Zimbabwe. The 33-year-old will also miss the upcoming SA20 season having limped off during the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton. Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body See you on the field to fuck some shit up — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) December 23, 2024 × Stokes out for three months "Something else to overcome…go on then!!!!!!!! "I’ve got so much more left in this tank and so much more blood sweat and tears to go through for my team and this shirt. There’s a reason I have a Phoenix permanently inked on my body. See you on the field to fuck some shit up," Stokes wrote on his X handle. In the England squad announced on Sunday (Dec 22), the veteran all-rounder was not considered for the Champions Trophy 2025 while also sitting out of the India tour prior to the big ICC tournament. Stokes has been struggling with a hamstring injury in the last few months and felt the recurrence of it during the New Zealand tour. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Head coach Andrew McDonald confirms Sam Konstas debut for Boxing Day Test; Travis Head uncertain While Stokes sits out of the upcoming tours in the New Year, another veteran Joe Root has returned to the ODI set-up. Root has not played for England since the 2023 ODI World Cup, however, with England pushing for another ICC trophy in white-ball cricket, Root’s inclusion comes as a big X-factor. He was part of the England side that won the 2019 ODI World Cup and played a key role for Eoin Morgan’s side. England squad for Champions Trophy Jos Buttler (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Jamie Smith, Liam Livingstone, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Saqib Mahmood, Phil Salt, and Mark Wood.

<p>England Test captain Ben Stokes has successfully undergone knee surgery ahead of the India tour late in January. Stokes took to his Instagram handle where he posted a picture of himself as he now vows to comeback after rehabilitation. England will play India in a five-match Test series with bearings on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. Stokes recently also was in the headlines after pulling out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season with Chennai Super Kings (CSK).</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C0PMTn0Mahf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy)</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Stokes undergoes surgery</strong></h2>

<p>The England all-rounder has been troubled by a consistent knee issue that has limited his actions in recent times. Stokes only played Test cricket after the 2022 T20 World Cup winning campaign, only to be recalled into the ODI setup for the World Cup in India. His persistent knee issue also kept him out of the opening few matches of the ODI World Cup, before returning with a couple of hundreds in the global tournament.</p>

<p>Stokes was spotted with crutches in his Instagram post with captions reading, “In and Out. Under the knife done. Rehab starts now.”</p>

<p>The 32-year-old has enjoyed a stellar start to his captaincy career having not lost a single Test series with the national side. Having been appointed as the skipper in June 2022, Stokes has led England to series wins against New Zealand, South Africa and Pakistan while also helping his side draw the Ashes 2-2 earlier this year.</p>

<p>His presence has been a big factor in England’s revival in the Test format as they challenge for a spot in the WTC final which will be held in 2025.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-ask-rohit-sharma-to-lead-in-south-africa-t20i-series-reports-664373">BCCI likely to ask Rohit Sharma to lead in South Africa T20I series: Reports</a></p>

<h2><strong>England tour of India</strong></h2>

<p><strong>1st Test: Jan 25, Thu - Jan 29, Mon</strong> - Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad</p>

<p><strong>2nd Test: Feb 02, Fri - Feb 06, Tue</strong> - Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam</p>

<p><strong>3rd Test: Feb 15, Thu - Feb 19, Mon</strong> - Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot</p>

<p><strong>4th Test: Feb 23, Fri - Feb 27, Tue</strong> - JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi</p>

<p><strong>5th Test: Mar 07, Thu - Mar 11, Mon</strong> - Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala</p>

<p>This will also be the first Test series for England without veteran star Stuart Broad, having announced his retirement after the Ashes. The likes of Mark Wood and Chris Woakes will be the key players for England during the tour.</p>


England Test captain Ben Stokes has successfully undergone knee surgery ahead of the India tour late in January. Stokes took to his Instagram handle where he posted a picture of himself as he now vows to comeback after rehabilitation.

England Test captain Ben Stokes has successfully undergone knee surgery ahead of the India tour late in January. Stokes took to his Instagram handle where he posted a picture of himself as he now vows to comeback after rehabilitation. England will play India in a five-match Test series with bearings on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. Stokes recently also was in the headlines after pulling out of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) Stokes undergoes surgery The England all-rounder has been troubled by a consistent knee issue that has limited his actions in recent times. Stokes only played Test cricket after the 2022 T20 World Cup winning campaign, only to be recalled into the ODI setup for the World Cup in India. His persistent knee issue also kept him out of the opening few matches of the ODI World Cup, before returning with a couple of hundreds in the global tournament. Stokes was spotted with crutches in his Instagram post with captions reading, “In and Out. Under the knife done. Rehab starts now.” The 32-year-old has enjoyed a stellar start to his captaincy career having not lost a single Test series with the national side. Having been appointed as the skipper in June 2022, Stokes has led England to series wins against New Zealand, South Africa and Pakistan while also helping his side draw the Ashes 2-2 earlier this year. His presence has been a big factor in England’s revival in the Test format as they challenge for a spot in the WTC final which will be held in 2025. ALSO READ | BCCI likely to ask Rohit Sharma to lead in South Africa T20I series: Reports England tour of India 1st Test: Jan 25, Thu - Jan 29, Mon - Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad 2nd Test: Feb 02, Fri - Feb 06, Tue - Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam 3rd Test: Feb 15, Thu - Feb 19, Mon - Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot 4th Test: Feb 23, Fri - Feb 27, Tue - JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi 5th Test: Mar 07, Thu - Mar 11, Mon - Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala This will also be the first Test series for England without veteran star Stuart Broad, having announced his retirement after the Ashes. The likes of Mark Wood and Chris Woakes will be the key players for England during the tour.

England Test captain Ben Stokes successfully undergoes knee surgery ahead of India tour in February

<p>England’s greatest batter and one of the modern-day’s highest run-scorers at the top in Tests, Sir Alastair Cook, 38, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The former England captain penned a heartfelt note, first shared by Essex on their social media handles, informing everyone of Cook's decision to bid adieu from the game he played for 20 years at the top level.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">👑 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝗿𝗮.<br />
<br />
Alastair Cook has today retired from all forms of professional cricket.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ThankYouChef?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ThankYouChef</a> <a href="https://t.co/eE4MdZIAae">pic.twitter.com/eE4MdZIAae</a></p>
— Essex Cricket (@EssexCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/EssexCricket/status/1712815453288976404?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Having retired from his favourite format (Tests) in 2018, hitting a hundred in his final innings against India at the Oval, Cook appeared for five seasons for Essex since.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Once his contract at Chelmsford expired, Cook decided against signing an extension, putting curtains down on a decorated career.</p>

<p>"It is not easy to say goodbye. Cricket has been so much more than my job," said Cook in a statement. "It has allowed me to experience places I never dreamed I would go, be a part of teams that have achieved things I would never have thought possible and, most importantly, created deep friendships that will last a lifetime.</p>

<p>"From the eight-year-old boy who first played for Wickham Bishops Under-11s to now, I end with a strange feeling of sadness mixed with pride. Above all, I am incredibly happy,” the left-handed batter noted.</p>

<p>Essex was waiting for Cook’s final decision after the end of the County Championship, where they finished second behind champions Surrey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with the coach and most of his teammates expecting Cook to stick around for a bit longer, the England opener called it quits instead, informing his team about his decision on Thursday evening. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/all-streaks-are-meant-to-be-broken-babar-azam-shrugs-off-past-records-ahead-of-india-pakistan-world-cup-tie-646407">All streaks are meant to be broken: Babar Azam shrugs off past records ahead of India-Pakistan World Cup tie</a></strong></p>

<p>"It is the right time for this part of my life to come to an end," Cook added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have always given absolutely everything I possibly could have to be the best player I could be, but now I want to make way for the new generation to take over.</p>

<p>“I will never underestimate the privilege I have had to play cricket. I will always be grateful for what the game has given to me. Now, I hope the Bedfordshire Farmers will find space for a has-been 'all-rounder' somewhere in their lower order.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Legend Cook’s career in numbers</h2>

<p>Alastair Cook was one of Test cricket’s greatest openers. He made his Test debut against India (in Nagpur, 2006), hitting a hundred and entering a huge list of cricketers scoring a three-digit score on Test debut.</p>

<p>After serving England cricket for around 12 years, Cook ended up with 12,472 Test runs and 33 centuries in 161 Tests, 159 of them played consecutively, a world record.</p>

<p>Cook captained England from 2012 to 2017, leading England in 59 Tests, including guiding them to two home Ashes wins in 2013 and 2015.</p>

<p>Overall, Cook has amassed 26,643 first-class runs – more than anyone else currently playing cricket – averaging more than 46, with 74 hundreds.</p>

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England’s greatest batter and one of the modern-day’s highest run-scorers at the top in Tests, Sir Alastair Cook, 38, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

England’s greatest batter and one of the modern-day’s highest run-scorers at the top in Tests, Sir Alastair Cook, 38, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The former England captain penned a heartfelt note, first shared by Essex on their social media handles, informing everyone of Cook's decision to bid adieu from the game he played for 20 years at the top level. 👑 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝗿𝗮. Alastair Cook has today retired from all forms of professional cricket.#ThankYouChef pic.twitter.com/eE4MdZIAae — Essex Cricket (@EssexCricket) October 13, 2023 × Having retired from his favourite format (Tests) in 2018, hitting a hundred in his final innings against India at the Oval, Cook appeared for five seasons for Essex since. Once his contract at Chelmsford expired, Cook decided against signing an extension, putting curtains down on a decorated career. "It is not easy to say goodbye. Cricket has been so much more than my job," said Cook in a statement. "It has allowed me to experience places I never dreamed I would go, be a part of teams that have achieved things I would never have thought possible and, most importantly, created deep friendships that will last a lifetime. "From the eight-year-old boy who first played for Wickham Bishops Under-11s to now, I end with a strange feeling of sadness mixed with pride. Above all, I am incredibly happy,” the left-handed batter noted. Essex was waiting for Cook’s final decision after the end of the County Championship, where they finished second behind champions Surrey. However, with the coach and most of his teammates expecting Cook to stick around for a bit longer, the England opener called it quits instead, informing his team about his decision on Thursday evening. ALSO READ: All streaks are meant to be broken: Babar Azam shrugs off past records ahead of India-Pakistan World Cup tie "It is the right time for this part of my life to come to an end," Cook added. "I have always given absolutely everything I possibly could have to be the best player I could be, but now I want to make way for the new generation to take over. “I will never underestimate the privilege I have had to play cricket. I will always be grateful for what the game has given to me. Now, I hope the Bedfordshire Farmers will find space for a has-been 'all-rounder' somewhere in their lower order.” Legend Cook’s career in numbers Alastair Cook was one of Test cricket’s greatest openers. He made his Test debut against India (in Nagpur, 2006), hitting a hundred and entering a huge list of cricketers scoring a three-digit score on Test debut. After serving England cricket for around 12 years, Cook ended up with 12,472 Test runs and 33 centuries in 161 Tests, 159 of them played consecutively, a world record. Cook captained England from 2012 to 2017, leading England in 59 Tests, including guiding them to two home Ashes wins in 2013 and 2015. Overall, Cook has amassed 26,643 first-class runs – more than anyone else currently playing cricket – averaging more than 46, with 74 hundreds. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

England great Sir Alastair Cook announces retirement from all forms of cricket, pens heartfelt letter

<p>England star Ben Stokes was named the Wisden Almanack's leading men's cricketer in the world for the third time in four years on Monday.</p>

<p>Stokes was selected for his dynamic captaincy of England's Test team in 2022, as well as his match-winning performance in the T20 World Cup final.</p>

<p>The all-rounder, who appears on the cover of the 160th edition of Wisden alongside England Test head coach Brendon McCullum, previously won the award in 2019 and 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-sehwag-comes-down-hard-on-under-performing-riyan-parag-says-rr-batter-could-soon-get-kicked-out-583384">Sehwag comes down hard on under-performing Riyan Parag, says RR batter could soon get kicked out</a></p>

<p>Stokes has masterminded 10 wins in 12 matches since taking over as England skipper, with his attacking and imaginative approach revitalising a previously moribund team.</p>

<p>Stokes also made waves in the white-ball game, helping to deliver the silverware for England's T20 side as his half-century settled the final against Pakistan in November.</p>

<p>"It's hard to think of any other cricketer who could have transformed his team's fortunes so suddenly as Ben Stokes," Wisden editor Lawrence Booth said.</p>

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<p>"When he took over the Test captaincy, England had won one game in their previous 17. By the time they had become the first visiting side to win 3-0 in Pakistan, they had won nine out of 10, and were playing with unprecedented style and verve."</p>

<p>Stokes' England team-mate Jonny Bairstow was the inaugural recipient of the new Wisden Trophy, awarded for the outstanding individual Test performance, after his twin centuries against India at Edgbaston.</p>

<p>Australia's Beth Mooney was named the leading women's cricketer in the world for the second time.</p>

<p>India's big-hitting Suryakumar Yadav was handed the award for the top Twenty20 cricketer in the world.</p>


England star Ben Stokes was named the Wisden Almanack's leading men's cricketer in the world for the third time in four years on Monday. Stokes was selected for his dynamic captaincy of England's Test team in 2022, as well as his match-winning performance in the T20 World Cup final.

England star Ben Stokes was named the Wisden Almanack's leading men's cricketer in the world for the third time in four years on Monday. Stokes was selected for his dynamic captaincy of England's Test team in 2022, as well as his match-winning performance in the T20 World Cup final. The all-rounder, who appears on the cover of the 160th edition of Wisden alongside England Test head coach Brendon McCullum, previously won the award in 2019 and 2020. Also Read: Sehwag comes down hard on under-performing Riyan Parag, says RR batter could soon get kicked out Stokes has masterminded 10 wins in 12 matches since taking over as England skipper, with his attacking and imaginative approach revitalising a previously moribund team. Stokes also made waves in the white-ball game, helping to deliver the silverware for England's T20 side as his half-century settled the final against Pakistan in November. "It's hard to think of any other cricketer who could have transformed his team's fortunes so suddenly as Ben Stokes," Wisden editor Lawrence Booth said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. "When he took over the Test captaincy, England had won one game in their previous 17. By the time they had become the first visiting side to win 3-0 in Pakistan, they had won nine out of 10, and were playing with unprecedented style and verve." Stokes' England team-mate Jonny Bairstow was the inaugural recipient of the new Wisden Trophy, awarded for the outstanding individual Test performance, after his twin centuries against India at Edgbaston. Australia's Beth Mooney was named the leading women's cricketer in the world for the second time. India's big-hitting Suryakumar Yadav was handed the award for the top Twenty20 cricketer in the world.

English Test captain Ben Stokes named Wisden's 2022 Cricketer of the Year

Ben Stokes has been one of the best players in World Cricket over the last decade. But with the England Test Captain not able to bowl for the first few matches, Will Chennai use him as their first 'Impact Player'?

Will Ben Stokes be CSK's impact player? | WION Sports Extra

<p>Former England captain Joe Root said stepping aside from Test captaincy early this year was something that was done for the betterment of England cricket. Following a disastrous run in red-ball cricket under Root where England won just one game in the 17 matches played between February 2021 to March 2022, Root decided to give up on leadership. Speaking to Sky Sports upon returning to his home country after winning a historic Test series in Pakistan, Root explained his call to step aside and what he thinks of this new Stokes-McCullum era that has taken the world by storm.</p>

<p>“For a number of reasons, it was the right thing to do - to step back. It needs someone to throw absolutely everything at it. As soon as I made that decision, it was quite clear that it was the right one, and I've not looked back. I gave everything to that role and threw everything at it. I am really proud of the way I went about that,” Root told Sky Sports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/first-irish-cricketer-to-bag-an-ipl-contract-joshua-little-is-delighted-to-be-part-of-gujarat-titans-546323">First Irish cricketer to bag an IPL contract Joshua Little is delighted to be part of Gujarat Titans</a></p>

<p>Talking about Bazball cricket&nbsp;that saw England hammering Pakistan across three Tests, Root said the aggressive approach is what changed the dynamics the team. Root added saying both McCullum and Stokes are exciting leaders given their way of approaching things.</p>

<p>“It felt like we can score six, seven runs an over on occasions, and when that's the case you feel like anything is possible. You can chase anything down and even in a game that looks like it could end up being a draw, when you can score 200 plus in a session, it doesn't feel like that's really a result option anymore. I think Brendon's got a very aggressive approach to how to play the game, I think Ben is even more aggressive! It is exciting"</p>

<p>Giving his opinion on what it must be like to be at the receiving end of such exciting yet aggressive cricket, Root said, "It's an interesting one! Whatever you want to call it, it's been great fun to play, and I think it must be quite difficult to play against - knowing what score to set.”</p>


Former England captain Joe Root said stepping aside from Test captaincy early this year was something that was done for the betterment of England cricket. Following a disastrous run in red-ball cricket under Root where England won just one game in the 17 matches played between February 2021 to March 2022, Root decided to give up on leadership.

Former England captain Joe Root said stepping aside from Test captaincy early this year was something that was done for the betterment of England cricket. Following a disastrous run in red-ball cricket under Root where England won just one game in the 17 matches played between February 2021 to March 2022, Root decided to give up on leadership. Speaking to Sky Sports upon returning to his home country after winning a historic Test series in Pakistan, Root explained his call to step aside and what he thinks of this new Stokes-McCullum era that has taken the world by storm. “For a number of reasons, it was the right thing to do - to step back. It needs someone to throw absolutely everything at it. As soon as I made that decision, it was quite clear that it was the right one, and I've not looked back. I gave everything to that role and threw everything at it. I am really proud of the way I went about that,” Root told Sky Sports. ALSO READ: First Irish cricketer to bag an IPL contract Joshua Little is delighted to be part of Gujarat Titans Talking about Bazball cricket that saw England hammering Pakistan across three Tests, Root said the aggressive approach is what changed the dynamics the team. Root added saying both McCullum and Stokes are exciting leaders given their way of approaching things. “It felt like we can score six, seven runs an over on occasions, and when that's the case you feel like anything is possible. You can chase anything down and even in a game that looks like it could end up being a draw, when you can score 200 plus in a session, it doesn't feel like that's really a result option anymore. I think Brendon's got a very aggressive approach to how to play the game, I think Ben is even more aggressive! It is exciting" Giving his opinion on what it must be like to be at the receiving end of such exciting yet aggressive cricket, Root said, "It's an interesting one! Whatever you want to call it, it's been great fun to play, and I think it must be quite difficult to play against - knowing what score to set.”

For a few reasons, it was better to step back - England's Joe Root on leaving Test captaincy

<p>Ben Stokes livened up the County Championship a week after being appointed England`s new Test captain when he smashed 161 off 88 balls for Durham against Worcestershire on Friday in an innings that included a record 17 sixes.</p>

<p>The record for most sixes in a County Championship innings was previously shared by Andrew Symonds and Graham Napier, who both hit 16 in 1995 and 2011, respectively. Stokes, who took over from Joe Root as England captain, notched up his ton in just 64 deliveries with a massive six that sailed into the stands.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-goes-berserk-with-incredible-ton-on-return-to-first-class-cricket-slams-34-runs-in-an-over-watch-476888">Ben Stokes goes berserk with incredible ton on return to first-class cricket, slams 34 runs in an over - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>The all-rounder bludgeoned 18-year-old Josh Baker for 34 runs in an over which included five sixes and a boundary -- the second time in his county career he had cleared the rope in five consecutive deliveries.<br />
He was eventually caught in the deep going for his 18th six, finding the fielder a couple of metres inside the rope. Durham posted 580-6 before they declared. Stokes will start his stint as Test captain when New Zealand tour England next month.</p>


Ben Stokes livened up the County Championship a week after being appointed England`s new Test captain when he smashed 161 off 88 balls for Durham against Worcestershire on Friday in an innings that included a record 17 sixes.

Ben Stokes livened up the County Championship a week after being appointed England`s new Test captain when he smashed 161 off 88 balls for Durham against Worcestershire on Friday in an innings that included a record 17 sixes. The record for most sixes in a County Championship innings was previously shared by Andrew Symonds and Graham Napier, who both hit 16 in 1995 and 2011, respectively. Stokes, who took over from Joe Root as England captain, notched up his ton in just 64 deliveries with a massive six that sailed into the stands. ALSO READ | Ben Stokes goes berserk with incredible ton on return to first-class cricket, slams 34 runs in an over - Watch The all-rounder bludgeoned 18-year-old Josh Baker for 34 runs in an over which included five sixes and a boundary -- the second time in his county career he had cleared the rope in five consecutive deliveries. He was eventually caught in the deep going for his 18th six, finding the fielder a couple of metres inside the rope. Durham posted 580-6 before they declared. Stokes will start his stint as Test captain when New Zealand tour England next month.

England Test captain Ben Stokes smashes County Championship record with 17 sixes in an innings

<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan has backed star all-rounder Ben Stokes to take over the baton from Joe Root after his resignation as the Test skipper of the England cricket team. Root stepped down as England's Test skipper on Friday (April 15) stating that the job had taken a toll on him recently after a string of poor results for his side.</p>

<p>Calls for Root's sacking had grown after England were thrashed 4-0 by Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 Down Under followed by a series defeat against West Indies. Root led England in the longest format for five years before bringing an end to his stint on Friday.</p>

<p>England are yet to officially announce Root's replacement as the next Test captain of the side but star all-rounder Ben Stokes is one of the favourites to take over. Stokes is one of the regulars across formats for England and has been producing consistent performances with the bat and the ball.</p>

<p>Vaughan said he doesn't see anyone else barring Stokes, who can take over England's Test captaincy from Root. The former England skipper said Stokes has a good cricketing brain and has also earned the respect of the players around him which make him an ideal candidate to lead the team going forward.</p>

<p>"I don't see anyone else who could take the position and be guaranteed of their place in the side," Vaughan told the BBC.</p>

<p>"In Ben Stokes, you have clearly got someone who has got a smart cricket brain, he's going to give it everything, he is certainly going to have the respect of the players around him," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-steps-down-as-england-cricket-team-test-captain-following-west-indies-defeat-471144">Joe Root steps down as England cricket team Test captain following West Indies defeat</a></p>

<p>Not just Vaughan, but former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton have also put their weight behind Stokes to take over as the next Test captain of the side. Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket to focus on mental health in July last year before making his comeback in the Ashes 2021-22.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder is currently out with an injury in his left knee but is expected to make his comeback in the County Championship for Durham next. Hussain called Stokes 'naturally gifted' but wants the England Cricket Board to be sure he wants to take up the challenge before handing him the captaincy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/michael-vaughan-ben-stokes-lead-tributes-for-joe-root-after-resignation-as-england-skipper-471262">Michael Vaughan, Ben Stokes lead tributes for Joe Root after resignation as England skipper</a></p>

<p>"You have to be in a good place mentally and physically to do the job - and Ben has had his problems away from the field," Hussain wrote in his&nbsp;column for&nbsp;<em>Daily Mail</em>.</p>

<p>"Whoever the new director of cricket is, the first thing they must do is ... sit down with Stokes, look him in the eye and find out where he is," he added.</p>


Former England captain Michael Vaughan has backed star all-rounder Ben Stokes to take over the baton from Joe Root after his resignation as the Test skipper of the England cricket team.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has backed star all-rounder Ben Stokes to take over the baton from Joe Root after his resignation as the Test skipper of the England cricket team. Root stepped down as England's Test skipper on Friday (April 15) stating that the job had taken a toll on him recently after a string of poor results for his side. Calls for Root's sacking had grown after England were thrashed 4-0 by Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 Down Under followed by a series defeat against West Indies. Root led England in the longest format for five years before bringing an end to his stint on Friday. England are yet to officially announce Root's replacement as the next Test captain of the side but star all-rounder Ben Stokes is one of the favourites to take over. Stokes is one of the regulars across formats for England and has been producing consistent performances with the bat and the ball. Vaughan said he doesn't see anyone else barring Stokes, who can take over England's Test captaincy from Root. The former England skipper said Stokes has a good cricketing brain and has also earned the respect of the players around him which make him an ideal candidate to lead the team going forward. "I don't see anyone else who could take the position and be guaranteed of their place in the side," Vaughan told the BBC. "In Ben Stokes, you have clearly got someone who has got a smart cricket brain, he's going to give it everything, he is certainly going to have the respect of the players around him," he added. Also Read: Joe Root steps down as England cricket team Test captain following West Indies defeat Not just Vaughan, but former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton have also put their weight behind Stokes to take over as the next Test captain of the side. Stokes had taken an indefinite break from cricket to focus on mental health in July last year before making his comeback in the Ashes 2021-22. The star all-rounder is currently out with an injury in his left knee but is expected to make his comeback in the County Championship for Durham next. Hussain called Stokes 'naturally gifted' but wants the England Cricket Board to be sure he wants to take up the challenge before handing him the captaincy. Also Read: Michael Vaughan, Ben Stokes lead tributes for Joe Root after resignation as England skipper "You have to be in a good place mentally and physically to do the job - and Ben has had his problems away from the field," Hussain wrote in his column for Daily Mail. "Whoever the new director of cricket is, the first thing they must do is ... sit down with Stokes, look him in the eye and find out where he is," he added.

'I don't see anyone else': Michael Vaughan picks Joe Root's replacement as England's Test captain

<p>England captain Joe Root is facing the heat from all corners after his side's 1-0 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against West Indies. After the first two Tests of the series ended in a draw, West Indies thrashed England by ten wickets in the final third encounter to clinch the series 1-0.</p>

<p>Kyle Mayers delivered a stellar performance with the ball as he bagged a five-wicket haul to run through the England batting line-up in their second innings and bundle them out for a paltry 120. West Indies chased down the target of 29 runs without breaking a sweat and won the Test match comprehensively to claim the series.</p>

<p>It was yet another disappointing performance from England in the longest format after their 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 earlier this year. Following England's 1-0 loss to West Indies, there have been calls for Root's sacking as the Test captain of the side.</p>

<p>The likes of former England captain Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton among others want Root to step down from his post and make way for a fresh change in the leadership role. Here we take a look at three England stars who can replace Root as the next Test captain of the team:&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>1) Ben Stokes</strong></p>

<p>Ben Stokes is seen as the leading contender to replace Joe Root as the new Test captain of England. One of the best all-rounders in the world at present, Stokes has been remarkably consistent for the side across formats over the last few years. The star all-rounder led an inexperienced and young England side in an ODI series against Pakistan last year and inspired the side to a 2-1 win.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stokes is one of the most experienced players in the current England Test squad with 79 matches to his name. Stokes has amassed over 5,000 runs and scalped 174 wickets in his Test career so far and can be an ideal candidate to lead the team going forward.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-never-had-that-instinctive-feel-nasser-hussain-calls-for-joe-root-to-step-down-as-england-captain-466339">He never had that instinctive feel: Nasser Hussain calls for Joe Root to step down as England's Test captain</a></p>

<p><strong>2) Jos Buttler&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Jos Buttler might not have been a regular for England in Tests recently but is part of the team's leadership group across formats. Buttler is one of the best attacking batters as far as white-ball cricket is concerned but is also equally good in red-ball cricket. He is also one of the senior-most members in the England Test squad and can be handed over the responsibility to lead the team in the longest format.</p>

<p>Buttler, who was dropped from the squad for the West Indies Test series, has played 57 Tests in his career so far. He has amassed 2907 runs at an average of over 31 in the longest format.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/updated-world-test-championship-points-table-after-west-indies-seal-test-series-1-0-vs-england-466394">&nbsp;Updated World Test Championship points table after West Indies seal Test series 1-0 vs England</a></p>

<p><strong>3) Jonny Bairstow</strong></p>

<p>England's Test side has been undergoing a transition for quite a while now with no set openers and a lack of firepower in the middle-order. Despite England's struggles in the whites, Jonny Bairstow has been one of the better performers for the team.</p>

<p>A technically&nbsp;sound batter who has been equally good across all formats, Bairstow has already played 83 Tests for his country and has amassed 4801 runs at an average of over 34, including 8 hundreds and 22 fifties. He can also be one of the contenders to take over captaincy if Root is sacked from his position in Tests.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


England captain Joe Root is facing the heat from all corners after his side's 1-0 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against West Indies. After the first two Tests of the series ended in a draw, West Indies thrashed England by ten wickets in the final third encounter to clinch the series 1-0.

England captain Joe Root is facing the heat from all corners after his side's 1-0 defeat in the recently-concluded Test series against West Indies. After the first two Tests of the series ended in a draw, West Indies thrashed England by ten wickets in the final third encounter to clinch the series 1-0. Kyle Mayers delivered a stellar performance with the ball as he bagged a five-wicket haul to run through the England batting line-up in their second innings and bundle them out for a paltry 120. West Indies chased down the target of 29 runs without breaking a sweat and won the Test match comprehensively to claim the series. It was yet another disappointing performance from England in the longest format after their 4-0 thrashing at the hands of Australia in the Ashes 2021-22 earlier this year. Following England's 1-0 loss to West Indies, there have been calls for Root's sacking as the Test captain of the side. The likes of former England captain Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton among others want Root to step down from his post and make way for a fresh change in the leadership role. Here we take a look at three England stars who can replace Root as the next Test captain of the team: 1) Ben Stokes Ben Stokes is seen as the leading contender to replace Joe Root as the new Test captain of England. One of the best all-rounders in the world at present, Stokes has been remarkably consistent for the side across formats over the last few years. The star all-rounder led an inexperienced and young England side in an ODI series against Pakistan last year and inspired the side to a 2-1 win. Stokes is one of the most experienced players in the current England Test squad with 79 matches to his name. Stokes has amassed over 5,000 runs and scalped 174 wickets in his Test career so far and can be an ideal candidate to lead the team going forward. Also Read: He never had that instinctive feel: Nasser Hussain calls for Joe Root to step down as England's Test captain 2) Jos Buttler Jos Buttler might not have been a regular for England in Tests recently but is part of the team's leadership group across formats. Buttler is one of the best attacking batters as far as white-ball cricket is concerned but is also equally good in red-ball cricket. He is also one of the senior-most members in the England Test squad and can be handed over the responsibility to lead the team in the longest format. Buttler, who was dropped from the squad for the West Indies Test series, has played 57 Tests in his career so far. He has amassed 2907 runs at an average of over 31 in the longest format. Also Read: Updated World Test Championship points table after West Indies seal Test series 1-0 vs England 3) Jonny Bairstow England's Test side has been undergoing a transition for quite a while now with no set openers and a lack of firepower in the middle-order. Despite England's struggles in the whites, Jonny Bairstow has been one of the better performers for the team. A technically sound batter who has been equally good across all formats, Bairstow has already played 83 Tests for his country and has amassed 4801 runs at an average of over 34, including 8 hundreds and 22 fifties. He can also be one of the contenders to take over captaincy if Root is sacked from his position in Tests.

3 players who can replace Joe Root as next Test captain of England

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3 players who can replace Joe Root as next Test captain of England