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Root named new England Test captain

February 13, 2017 16:42 IST

'We have a very good group of players and I’m looking forward to leading them out in the summer, building on Alastair’s achievements and making the most of our talents in the years ahead.'

Joe Root

IMAGE: England's Joe Root in action. Photograph: Ryan Pierse/Getty Images

Joe Root was named as England's Test captain on Monday, replacing Alastair Cook who resigned last week after four and a half years in charge.

The 26-year-old Yorkshire batsman has scored 4,594 Test runs since he made his debut in 2012 and has been vice-captain since May 2015.

Cook, 32, resigned on February 6 after captaining England in 59 Tests.

Root, currently third in the world Test batting rankings, was the standout candidate and will become England's 80th Test skipper with his first game in charge set to be against South Africa at Lord's on July 6.

On accepting the role of England Test captain, Root said: "It is a huge honour to be given the England Test captaincy. I feel privileged, humbled and very excited.

"We have a very good group of players and I’m looking forward to leading them out in the summer, building on Alastair’s achievements and making the most of our talents in the years ahead.

"The senior guys in the changing room play a very influential role and whilst there’s a natural progression for me it’s a huge support to know that they are there to help and advise."

Source: REUTERS
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