NEW DELHI: England batter Joe Root has shut the door on any possibility of leading England’s white-ball side, stating that his time as captain has passed. Instead, his full attention is on the upcoming Test series against India and the highly anticipated Ashes in Australia later this year.
England are on the hunt for a new white-ball skipper after Jos Buttler stepped down following a disastrous Champions Trophy campaign, where they lost all three of their group-stage matches. However, Root made it clear he isn’t in the running.
“I don’t think so. I think that ship’s sailed. I think I’ve done my time as a captain in England, but I’m sure whoever gets the opportunity to do it will be extremely proud and do a brilliant job,” Root told Sky Sports.
Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!
Reflecting on England’s disappointing Champions Trophy run, he admitted the team underperformed but remains confident in its future. “We didn’t play anywhere near what we’re capable of, but there’s so much talent and so much more to come from that team.”
Root sees England’s struggles as a chance to reset and rebuild, much like they did after 2015. “I think it’s a really good opportunity to move forward again as a group and get back to the heights that we know we’re capable of, like in that 2015 to 2019 phase.”
England’s next big challenge is a five-match home Test series against India, starting June 20 at Headingley. The visitors, who last won a Test series in England in 2007, will be aiming to break that long drought.
Following the India series, England will shift focus to The Ashes in Australia, a contest they haven’t won on Aussie soil since 2010-11.
“These are the years you play for — two of the biggest teams, two of the biggest series as an England player. It’s something the team is relishing,” said Root.
Confident about England’s Ashes chances, he added, “I think we’re capable of winning, but we’ve got to take care of business at home first. India coming over for a five-match series means there’s no hiding place. It’s a long old slog, and you need to deliver match-winning performances again and again.”
Before facing India, England will warm up with a four-day Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge from May 22.
Root, known for his relentless hunger for improvement, signed off by sharing his mindset: “As soon as you lose that drive, it’s time to call it a day. You’re constantly looking to evolve, never wanting to stand still.”
“As long as you keep pushing yourself and helping the team grow — whether it’s mentoring younger players or being a good professional in training—you not only improve yourself but also the guys around you.”
Get the latest IPL 2025 updates on Times of India, including match schedules, team squads, points table and IPL live score for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Don’t miss the list of players in the race for IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple cap.
