Andrew Strauss expects Joe Root to thrive as England's Test captain
Monday 13 February 2017 12:21, UK
Andrew Strauss is backing Joe Root to succeed as England Test captain after his appointment was confirmed on Monday.
Alastair Cook stepped down from the captaincy on February 6 and will now look to inspire as an opening batsman while Root leads the England team in a big year that includes a summer series against South Africa and the defence of the Ashes on Australian soil.
Root made his Test debut in India in 2012, during the same series that Cook made his bow as England's permanent captain, himself having taken over from England and Wales Cricket Board director Strauss.
And Strauss feels Root, who had been Cook's vice-captain since 2015, has the right qualities to thrive in his new leadership role, while also offering his support to new vice-captain Ben Stokes.
Strauss said: "Joe is the right man to be our next Test captain, and I'm thrilled he has accepted the role.
"After Alastair stepped down last week, the selectors and I engaged in the proper process to appoint his successor. Following informal and formal conversations with members of the Test team at the end of the week, the offer was put to Joe - and he accepted immediately.
"Joe has shown a number of admirable qualities in his Test career so far.
"Making his debut in 2012 at the age of 21 and going on to establish himself as one of the premier batsmen in all forms of the game in such a short period of time demonstrates his drive, determination, cricketing intelligence and an ability to learn that will serve him well in his new role.
"He is universally respected by his team-mates, passionate about driving the Test team forward and extremely excited about the prospect of leading his country.
"I'm also delighted that Ben Stokes will take over from Joe as vice-captain of the team.
"He has real presence and influence within the team environment that will serve as a great source of support for Joe. I have no doubts that the responsibility will also help Ben to continue his rapid rise as a world-class all-rounder."
