Yorkshire's 'pride' after Joe Root returns as England Test captain under new coach Stephen Fleming
YORKSHIRE have paid tribute to Joe Root following his reappointment as England Test captain – after one of their former overseas players was named as the new head coach to work alongside him.
Root will lead England for a second spell after Ben Stokes’ retirement last month, while Stephen Fleming – who played for Yorkshire in 2003 – replaces his fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum.
“Everyone at Yorkshire County Cricket Club is immensely proud to see Joe reappointed as England Test captain,” said Sanjay Patel, the Yorkshire chief executive.
“Joe embodies everything that Yorkshire cricket stands for. His professionalism, humility and relentless pursuit of excellence have made him one of the greatest players the game has seen, whilst never losing his connection with the club where his journey began.
“He has always been a leader and an outstanding ambassador for Yorkshire and for English cricket over many years, and we know he will lead England with the same integrity, intelligence and determination that has defined his career.
“On behalf of everyone associated with Yorkshire cricket, we congratulate Joe on his appointment and wish him every success in the role.”
Patel’s words were echoed by Gavin Hamilton, the club’s general manager of cricket.
“Joe's cricket speaks for itself, but what continues to impress everyone here is the person he is.
“Whenever he returns to Yorkshire, he immediately raises standards around the group. Our young players learn simply by watching the way he prepares, trains and competes.
“His experience, knowledge and leadership are invaluable, and we're delighted to see him given the opportunity to captain England once again. Everyone at Yorkshire will be right behind him.”
Root, 35, returns to a role he held between 2017 and 2022. No one has led England in more Tests (65) or to more wins (27). He recently took the job on an interim basis when Stokes missed last month’s Oval Test against New Zealand.
“It is a great honour and privilege to be asked to be England men’s Test captain again,” said Root, who is England’s record run-scorer in Tests and one-day internationals.
“The Test captaincy is a difficult but hugely rewarding job, and, after enjoying a brief taste of it again working with Baz McCullum last month, I am excited to lead this next generation of players forward.
“The opportunity to do that alongside Stephen is also a huge motivator. He has proved over a long period of time that he is an exceptional leader with a great knowledge of the game, and I am looking forward to working with him and helping to build a winning environment.”
Root’s first Test back in charge will be at Headingley when it hosts the first in a three-match series against Pakistan from August 19.
Fleming, 53, will take up his role after that series ahead of the winter tour to South Africa. This is to allow him to spend some time with his family in New Zealand after he recently ended an 18-year association with Chennai Super Kings, the Indian Premier League franchise.
Marcus Trescothick, England assistant coach, will serve as interim head coach for the Pakistan series.