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

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The England captain told his team-mates and the side’s backroom staff of his intentions on Sunday.

Ben Stokes, the England captain, has announced his retirement from international cricket. Who should replace him?

Joe Root is the only credible option the ECB can turn to as England’s Test team faces an uncertain future

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Brook was previously involved in a late night altercation with a bouncer the night before an ODI in Wellington last November.

Ben Stokes backed Harry Brook to succeed him as England's Test captain after bowing out of international cricket, saying the gifted batsman had his "100 percent support".

NOTTINGHAM, England, June 29 - Ben Stokes has thrown his backing behind Harry Brook to succeed him as England test captain.Brook, England's white-ball skipper, was Stokes’s…

Ben Stokes has expressed full confidence in Harry Brook as his potential successor, offering unwavering support despite Brook being overlooked during Stokes' recent absence.

Brook was previously involved in an altercation with a bouncer the night before an ODI in Wellington last year

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Ben Stokes says vice-captain Harry Brook has his "100 per cent" support to lead England's Test side, but coach Brendon McCullum is less effusive.

Ben Stokes appears isolated in wanting Harry Brook to replace him as England Test cricket captain, while there are widespread calls for the team’s other key leaders to walk the…

Ben Stokes has thrown his full support behind Harry Brook as his preferred successor to lead England's Test team following his retirement from international cricket. Brook, who…