Joe Root to captain England in second New Zealand Test after Ben Stokes omitted from squad

Joe Root will captain England in the second Test against New Zealand on Wednesday after Ben Stokes was left out of the squad. Root, who led England in 64 Tests between 2017 and 2022, said he is taking the role on a game-by-game basis. 1 percent chance of reclaiming earlier this year.

Root said he spoke with Stokes after last week's incident but wants to keep those conversations private. He added that Stokes still holds the respect of the dressing room. Stokes was omitted after breaching the team's midnight curfew the night after England's victory in the first Test.

A member of England's security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player during the same incident. Root said he has been slightly envious of Stokes for working alongside coach Brendon McCullum. He noted he has enjoyed the last couple of days working with McCullum in a different capacity.

Root said he only had a little think before agreeing to return. He said the only considerations were what is best for the team and any effect on his personal life. Root previously stepped down after a run of one win in 17 Tests.

He said he played around 20 Tests in Covid environments and found himself consumed by the job in a way that changed who he wanted to be. Root said stepping down was the right decision and created a fresh start for English cricket. He said he has never had more fun or got more out of a group of coaches than the current one.

Harry Brook was overlooked for the captaincy after his own off-field incident last winter in Wellington. England's squad for the second Test includes debutants Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker. It remains unclear whether wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will be available, as his wife is expecting their second child.