Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleBen Stokes has unequivocally backed Harry Brook to succeed him as England Test captain, describing it as a "natural progression" for his current deputy. Stokes' endorsement followed his final international match, which saw England suffer a 160-run defeat to New Zealand, resulting in a 2-1 series loss. Despite past concerns regarding Brook's involvement in a nightclub altercation, Stokes dismissed these, highlighting Brook's role as vice-captain and his leadership qualities. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to make a decision soon, with Joe Root also considered a potential candidate for the captaincy. Stokes also gave a reserved assessment of head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key, who are facing pressure after a period of poor results and off-field controversies, while reiterating his own international retirement is final. In fullBen Stokes insists Harry Brook is the right man to replace him as England Test captainThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Ben Stokes drops verdict on who should be next England captain
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleBen Stokes has unequivocally backed Harry Brook to succeed him as England Test captain, describing it as a "natural progression" for his current deputy. Stokes' endorsement followed his final international match, which saw England suffer a 160-run defeat to New Zealand, resulting in a 2-1 series loss. Despite past concerns regarding Brook's involvement in a nightclub altercation, Stokes dismissed these, highlighting Brook's role as vice-captain and his leadership qualities. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to make a decision soon, with Joe Root also considered a potential candidate for the captaincy. Stokes also gave a reserved assessment of head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key, who are facing pressure after a period of poor results and off-field controversies, while reiterating his own international retirement is final. In fullBen Stokes insists Harry Brook is the right man to replace him as England Test captainThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
