England has confirmed Harry Brook as their new white ball captain after the resignation of Jos Buttler from the position after the conclusion of the Champions Trophy.
Brook will captain England across both T20I and ODI formats. The 26-year-old has been the vice-captain of the team for the past year or so and has also led the side in the absence of regular captain Job Buttler in the five ODI series against Australia last September. His first outing as full captain of the England team will come in the three T20I and three ODI match series against West Indies at the end of May.
“It’s a real honor to be named England’s white-ball captain. Ever since I was a kid playing cricket at Burley in Wharfedale, I dreamed of representing Yorkshire, playing for England, and maybe one day leading the team. To now be given that chance means a great deal to me,” Brook said in a statement.
“I want to thank my family and coaches who’ve supported me every step of the way. Their belief in me has made all the difference and I wouldn’t be in this position without them. There’s so much talent in this country, and I’m looking forward to getting started, moving us forward, and working towards winning series, World Cups, and major events. I’m excited to get going and give it everything I’ve got.”
It was a toss-up between Harry Brook and their Test match captain Ben Stokes. The ECB management decided to go with Harry Brook.
Rob Key, ECB’s director of cricket was delighted by the appointment of Brook as captain. He said, “I’m delighted that Harry Brook has accepted the role as England’s white-ball captain across both formats. He’s been part of our succession planning for some time, albeit this opportunity has come slightly earlier than expected.
“Harry is not only an outstanding cricketer, but also has an excellent cricketing brain and a clear vision for both teams that will help drive us towards winning more series, World Cups and major global tournaments.”
Brook is considered one of the best batters in world cricket as of now. It will be interesting to see how he will fare as full-time captain of the white ball England team.