Harry Brook has been appointed as England’s new white-ball captain, leading both the ODI and T20 teams.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed his appointment on Monday. Brook takes over from Jos Buttler, who stepped down in February.
Buttler resigned following England’s poor Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan. The team failed to reach the semifinals.
Under Buttler’s leadership, England also lost both the T20 and 50-over World Cup titles.
Brook, 26, had been the frontrunner for the role. He previously served as vice-captain and even led during an ODI series in Australia.
Unlike other candidates, Brook is a regular starter across all formats. That consistency boosted his chances for captaincy.
Some experts had raised concerns. They questioned if white-ball captaincy might affect his Test career.
Even Rob Key, England’s director of men’s cricket, suggested Ben Stokes as a possible short-format captain last month.
However, Stokes is recovering from another hamstring injury. He can now focus fully on England’s upcoming Test series.
The injury ruled him out of white-ball leadership, clearing the path for Brook’s appointment.
Stokes showed support by posting “Yes Brooky lad” on social media, celebrating the ECB’s announcement.
Brook brings valuable experience to the role. He has played 26 ODIs, scoring 816 runs at an average of 34.00.
His highest ODI score is 110. In T20s, he has featured in 44 matches, with a top score of 81.
Notably, he was part of England’s T20 World Cup-winning squad in 2022.
Harry Brook reaction
Reacting to the news, Brook said, “It’s a real honour to be named England’s white-ball captain.”
He added, “As a kid in Burley-in-Wharfedale, I dreamed of this. Leading England means the world to me.”
Brook also said, “There’s so much talent in this country. I’m excited to begin, lead with intent, and win major tournaments.”
Rob Key expressed full confidence in Brook’s leadership. “Harry has an excellent cricket brain,” Key said.
“He’s been part of our leadership planning. This chance came earlier than expected, but we believe he’s ready.”
Brook’s first series as captain begins on May 29. England will face West Indies in an ODI at Edgbaston.
A three-match T20 series will follow, marking the official start of his white-ball leadership era.
