England vs Pakistan: A huge challenge, but Joe Root can finish captaincy story
Joe Root is set to return as England's Test cricket captain following the departure of Ben Stokes. The team faces a challenging transition period with a new coaching setup and a upcoming series against Pakistan.
Why it matters
The leadership change marks a significant turning point for the England cricket team as they attempt to stabilize after a period of inconsistent performance.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Returning captain Joe Root has already led in 65 Tests, an England record
Cricket Correspondent at Headingley Published 18 August 2026 Of all the places for England to begin a new era, Headingley is the most difficult to shake off the memory of Ben Stokes.
In the city of Stokes' greatest miracle, the home side must plot a future without a captain, all-rounder and talisman, starting against Pakistan on Wednesday.
Yet, for all Stokes' legendary achievements it cannot be said his four-year spell as England captain ended with the team in a better state than he found it.
Stokes inherited a team that had won only one in 17 and exited with two wins in 10. New, old skipper Joe Root might wonder about the chaos his old mucker has left behind.
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