Joe Root has been re-appointed as Test captain while former Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming has been named as England’s Test head coach, ECB announced on Thursday. Root will take over the captaincy baton after Ben Stokes’ Test retirement, whereas Fleming will take over from his compatriot Brendon McCullum after the latter’s sacking.

Root previously led England from 2017 to 2022 before Ben Stokes replaced him. Under Root’s captaincy, England won 27 Test matches, lost as many and drew 11 out of 65 games.

The veteran batter also recently led England in the second Test match against New Zealand in the absence of Ben Stokes.

On the other hand, Stephen Fleming recently parted ways with Chennai Super Kings. Fleming had a great stint with CSK, leading the franchise to five titles in the Indian Premier League.

Root expressed his delight after being re-appointed as England’s Test captain and said it is a huge honour and privilege for him to once again lead the national team.

He said, as quoted by ECB, “It is a great honour and privilege to be asked to be England Men’s Test captain again. The Test captaincy is a difficult but hugely rewarding job and, after enjoying a brief taste of it again working with [Brendon] McCullum last month, I am excited to lead this next generation of players forward.”

“The opportunity to do that alongside Stephen is also a huge motivator. He has proved over a long period of time that he is an exceptional leader with a great knowledge of the game, and I am looking forward to working with him and helping to build a winning environment.”

Root’s first assignment will be the three-match Test series against Pakistan, starting August 19.