JOE ROOT STEPS DOWN AS ENGLAND’S TEST TEAM CAPTAIN

(The Quiver): Joe Root today stepped down as England captain after making what he describes as ‘the most challenging decision of my career.’

Root was adamant after England’s defeat in the Caribbean that he wanted to carry on in charge but with England having won only one of their last 17 Tests he has bowed to the inevitable and today offered his resignation to England.

After returning from the Caribbean and having time to reflect I have decided to step down as England captain,’ said the 31-year-old in an ECB statement.

It has been the most challenging decision I have had to make in my career but having discussed this with my family and those closest to me I know the timing is right.

‘I am immensely proud to have captained my country and will look back on the past five years with enormous pride. It has been an honour to have done the job and to have been the custodian of what is the pinnacle of English cricket.

‘I have loved leading my country but recently it’s hit home how much of a toll it has taken on me and the impact it has had on me away from the game.

‘I am excited to continue representing the Three Lions and producing performances that will enable the team to succeed. I look forward to helping the next captain, my team-mates and coaches in whatever way I can.’

Root bows out holding the record for the most number of matches and wins as England men’s captain.

His 27 victories put him ahead of Michael Vaughan, Sir Alastair Cook and Sir Andrew Strauss but he has also lost 26 Tests, more than anyone else.

Root’s 5,295 runs while leading the team is the most of any England captain and he scored 14 centuries and 26 half-centuries while in the post.

Now England have the considerable challenge of replacing him. Ben Stokes is the only viable candidate among the current team but there are strong reservations about giving him the job, particularly after he took a break from the game last year to protect his mental health.