Ben Stokes questions England's decision to bypass Harry Brook for Test captaincy

Ben Stokes (File pic)

Former England captain Ben Stokes has raised concerns over the decision to bypass vice-captain Harry Brook for the Test leadership role following Stokes' retirement from international cricket.

Stokes argued that promising leaders should be trusted with the role directly, pointing out that he possessed minimal captaincy experience when he was appointed to lead the national side. Instead of handing the reins to Brook, the selectors opted to reappoint Joe Root for a second stint at the helm.

"If you think someone is going to be a good captain or a good leader, just give it to them. Brooky [was] made vice-captain. I'm not there anymore, but even when I missed that Test match [against New Zealand] I was like 'why is Brooky not captain? He's vice-captain," Stokes said on the For The Love of Cricket podcast.

"And I understood the reasoning why they were saying it, but I was still like, what message is that sending to him? He's vice-captain, and the captain is not playing, but he's not captain. Then the same again here. I had no leadership or captaincy experience when I took over. It was just thought I was going to be a good captain," he added.

Stokes offers support and concern for Joe Root's return

Despite his reservations regarding Harry Brook's omission, Stokes offered his complete backing to Root as he resumes the captaincy. Root previously served as England's Test captain from 2017 to 2022, securing 27 wins in 65 matches to become England's most successful Test skipper, and recently served as interim captain during the Test match against New Zealand at The Oval.

Stokes emphasised that his primary consideration is Root's personal well-being, acknowledging the heavy toll and selfless commitment required during his earlier tenure.

"I wish him [Root] nothing but success. I hope he goes on and achieves amazing things in his role as captain. I told Joe, I said my only worry is just you. And that's all I really care about now, just because I have seen what he went through and how much he put himself through for someone. He's just always put the team first - he always comes second," Stokes said.