Retired England Test captain Ben Stokes has backed white-ball captain Harry Brook to replace him as the next Test captain. The experienced all-rounder named the Yorkshire batsman as his favorite choice after playing his last international match against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.
Stokes ended his 15-year international career Following England’s 160-run defeat in the third and final Test against New Zealand. Brook, who is already England’s white-ball captain, is the leading candidate to take charge of the Test team after serving as vice-captain in the red-ball setup.
There’s a reason why he was asked to be vice-captain” – Ben Stokes backs Harry Brook for Test captaincy
Ben Stokes said he was not involved in the decision to appoint former captain Joe Root as stand-in captain for the second Test. Notably, Harry Brook was the named vice-captain in the recent series.
Stokes said, “That’s why he was asked to be the vice-captain of this team. I know that amidst all the controversies that have happened in the last few weeks, some decisions were taken, but they were decisions that I was not involved in taking.”
Brook has emerged as a strong contender to replace Stokes as England’s next Test captain. Following Stokes’ retirement from international cricket, the England and Wales Cricket Board is expected to decide on the new Test captain before the team’s next assignment.
It’s a natural progression – Ben Stokes backs Harry Brook to take his place
Ben Stokes said Harry Brook is the right choice to become England’s next Test captain. He explained that promotion to vice-captain is a normal progression and pointed out that he had also served as Joe Root’s deputy before taking up the role.
Stokes said, “You’re asked to be vice-captain of a team for a certain reason. I was vice-captain under Joe for a long time, and it’s a natural progression. If the captain isn’t there or is unavailable, you step in to do it. So there’s no reason why Harry shouldn’t be asked to do it.”
I am giving my 100% support – Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes praised Brook’s leadership qualities and growing influence in the England dressing room. He said the vice-captaincy showed the team’s confidence in Brook and that they believe he has what it takes to lead England in Test cricket.
“He’s someone who is obviously an incredible player and one of the most senior players in this group. Only time will tell, but you don’t ask someone to be vice-captain if you don’t think they have the skills and ability to captain the team when needed. If I was asked who I think should do it, I’m throwing my 100% support behind Harry Brook.”
Brook became England’s white-ball captain in April 2025 after Jos Buttler stepped down. He has led ODI and T20I teams, including in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Yorkshire batsman is also one of the leading Test batsmen in the world and is currently ranked No. 2 in the ICC Test batting rankings behind Joe Root.
