Root's great challenge to finish captaincy story
Joe Root has an unexpected chance to address some unfinished business as England captain, but it is one of the biggest challenges of his stellar career.
England begins a new era without the captaincy of Ben Stokes, as the team must plot a future without him for their opening Test against Pakistan. Joe Root, the experienced all-rounder, has been given the chance to finish his captaincy story. However, critics may question his ability to improve the team given his mixed record as captain during Stokes' tenure.
Root's tenure included a success rate of 55%, which was slightly better than Stokes' 54%. Root's first stint as captain coincided with a prioritisation of white-ball cricket, leading to a better batting form and more Test runs. He is confident he can juggle the roles of captain and run-scorer, especially considering his position as England's best batter in recent years.
Root's team will face a difficult series against Pakistan, who have not won a series in England in 30 years but have played more Tests in July and August than England. Despite the challenges, England remains the favorites, and Root is determined to lead his team to a competitive series.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
