Joe Root reappointed England Test captain four years after stepping down

Joe Root has been reappointed England Test captain permanently, four years after stepping down and admitting the role had affected him. He replaces Ben Stokes, who ruled out a Test return for the 2027 Ashes. Root takes charge of a side without a Test series win since late 2024, following a 4-1 Ashes defeat and 2-1 loss to New Zealand. New head coach Stephen Fleming joins him. England's next Test begins August 19.