Joe Root resigned as England’s Test captain on Friday, capping up a tumultuous five-year tenure that included an Ashes thrashing and defeat in the West Indies.
The Yorkshireman, who succeeded Alastair Cook as England captain in 2017, has the record for most matches and victories, but he also holds the unfavourable record for most defeats.
The 31-year-old has guided his team to a number of important series wins, including a 4-1 home victory over India in 2018 and a 3-1 victory away to South Africa in 2019/20.
However, the last 12 months have been abysmal. After winning their first three Tests in 2021, England has only won one since, losing 11 and drawing five of their last 17.
Root’s decision follows a 1-0 Test series loss to the West Indies last month, which followed a humbling 4-0 Ashes loss in Australia — the second 4-0 loss in Australia under his leadership.
“I have chosen to step down as England men’s Test captain after returning from the Caribbean tour and having time to reflect,” Root said in a statement posted by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).