The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Thursday that all-rounder Ben Stokes had been named the next England Test squad captain.

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“The England & Wales Cricket Board has named Durham’s Ben Stokes captain of the England Men’s Test team. He replaces Joe Root as the 81st captain of England’s Men’s Test squad. The appointment was accepted by the ECB Interim Chair and Chief Executive Officer on Tuesday evening, following the proposal of England Men’s Cricket Managing Director, Rob Key,” the ECB said in a statement.

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From Michael Vaughan to Kevin Pietersen to England Cricket Team supporters, everyone has sent their warmest wishes to their new skipper.

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Stokes, for his part, has said that he is honoured to be the next Test captain and has acknowledged predecessor Joe Root for being a vital ally and playing a significant role in his development.

“I am honoured 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. 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,” Stokes stated after his appointment was confirmed.

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A talismanic all-rounder for England, Stokes has 5,061 Test runs with an average of 35.89, as well as 174 wickets to his name.

In a captaincy role, the 30-year-old had previously led England to a 3-0 ODI series victory over Pakistan last summer. Stokes’ only loss came at the hands of the West Indies in 2020, when he was stand-in captain.