England names Stephen Fleming as Test coach, Joe Root as captain as Ben Stokes retires and eyes coaching role

Stephen Fleming was appointed England’s new Test head coach on 30 July 2026 and will assume full duties on the South Africa tour in December 2026. He has already approached former Australian batsman Michael Hussey about joining the staff as batting coach, citing their long partnership at the Chennai Super Kings franchise.

Joe Root has been re‑appointed as England’s Test captain following the retirement of Ben Stokes. Root previously led England from 2017‑2022, winning 27 Tests, and will now lead the side in the upcoming home series against Pakistan and the subsequent South Africa tour.

Ben Stokes announced his permanent retirement from international cricket in June 2026 after the New Zealand series. He confirmed he is completing a Level‑3 coaching qualification, wants to become England’s head coach in the future, and has ruled out any comeback for the 2027 Ashes. Stokes also said his retirement contributed to the dismissal of former Test coach Brendon McCullum. He may play in Major League Cricket in the United States and will continue with Durham in the County Championship.

England’s first‑two‑Test squad for the Pakistan series reflects the post‑Stokes era, with several county‑based selections and a focus on seam bowling.