Ben Stokes named as England Test Captain
Ben Stokes (Image Source : Twitter)
Arguably the best all-rounder in world cricket Ben Stokes takes up the onus of leading England’s men’s team in Test Cricket. He has been appointed as the 81st Test captain of the Three-Lions, succeeding Joe Root by the England and Wales Cricket Board.
Ben Stokes‘ name for the job was recommended by the Managing Director of the ECB, Rob Key. The appointment was then approved by the ECB interim Chair, Martin Darlow, and the Chief Executive, Tom Harrison on Tuesday. While speaking about the appointment Rob Key said in a statement – “I had no hesitation in offering the role of Test captain to Ben. He epitomizes the mentality and approach that we want, to take this team forward into the next era of red-ball cricket. I am delighted that he has accepted, and is ready for the added responsibility and honor. He thoroughly deserves the opportunity.”
The ECB Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison was delighted with the new development. He expressed his joy saying- “I am delighted that Ben has agreed to become England Men’s Test captain, which is another great achievement in his extraordinary career in an England shirt. He cares deeply and passionately about what it means to lead England and he will lead us to a new era with great pride. It’s an important summer for our Test side and Ben will I am sure relish the challenge.”
In his illustrious career, Stokes has played 79 tests for England after his debut in 2013. He was named the vice-captain of the team in the red-ball format in 2017. Stokes has 5,061 runs at an average of 35. 89 with the bat and has also picked up 174 wickets with the ball in the longest format of the game. He will look to lead England into an era where they dominate the world in Test cricket. Stokes will also look to end the rut of form the team is in, winning only one Test in the last 17 matches.
While speaking about it Stokes said – “I am honored to be given the chance to lead the England Test team. This is a real privilege, and I’m excited about getting started this summer. I want to thank Joe for everything he Has done for English cricket and for always being a great ambassador of the sport all across the world. He has been a massive part of my development as a leader in the dressing room, and he will continue to be a key ally for me in this role.”
