Harry Brook said it would be “an honour and a privilege” to become Test captain moving forward, in the wake of Ben Stokes’ sudden retirement.
Stokes dropped a bombshell in the middle of England’s loss to New Zealand earlier this week, announcing he would be retiring from international cricket.
Ben Stokes retired after the third Test. Getty Images
The 35-year-old’s decision came fresh off a nightclub incident in London.
His exit leaves a gaping hole for England, both from a playing quality and leadership perspective, with plenty of debate surrounding who replaces Stokes.
Brook has been the Test vice-captain for quite some time, but was involved in a similar off-field incident to the departing skipper prior to the Ashes.
Joe Root has expressed little interest in taking over again on a permanent basis, despite leading the side in the second Test recently when Stokes was stood down.
Another possible candidate is young gun Jacob Bethell, but former captain Michael Vaughan cautioned against it this early in his Test career.
The lack of genuine captaincy options means that Brook appears to be in the box-seat to assume the position – but he isn’t aware of the ECB’s plans yet.
“It would be an honour and a privilege to be Test captain – the pinnacle of our sport,” he told BBC Sport after the 2-1 series loss.
“It’s not up to me to make that decision. It’s up to people well above me. I’d be happy to do it if I did get asked.”
One concern raised around Brook – aside from his recent off-field troubles – is the fact he already captains the ODI and T20 teams for England.
However, the 27-year-old is confident he could juggle all three jobs if required.
“I’m not saying it would be easy, but I definitely do think it is possible,” Brook said.
“The fact I don’t play franchise cricket means there are periods in my calendar when I wouldn’t be playing cricket.
“I’d be focusing on my fitness and getting ready to play all three formats, which has been a dream of mine since I could speak or walk. If I am or I’m not captain for England in Test cricket, I’d be happy to just still be playing for England.”
Harry Brook is the England vice-captain. Getty
Stokes threw his support behind his understudy stepping into the role.
“There’s a reason why he was asked to be vice-captain of this team,” Stokes said.
“I was vice-captain under Joe for a long time and it’s a natural progression. If the captain’s not there or unavailable, then he had to do that.
“There’s absolutely no reason why Harry shouldn’t. He’s someone who’s obviously an incredible player, one of the more senior players in this group, but we all know he’s a phenomenally talented individual when it comes to his skills as a batter.
“You don’t ask someone to be vice-captain if you don’t think that they’ve got the skills and the ability to be able to captain the team. If I was to be asked who I think should do it, I’m throwing my 100 per cent support behind Harry Brook.”