Root's return as Test captain a sign of England's problems

England's decision to reinstate Joe Root as full-time Test captain for the upcoming series against Pakistan marks a significant, albeit potentially revealing, move for the team. Root, widely regarded as one of the era's finest batsmen, returns to a role he previously held for a national record 65 Tests between 2017 and 2022.

His initial departure from the captaincy followed a difficult period, characterized by only one win in 17 matches. At the time, Root described the captaincy as having "sucked the life out of me" and stated he was "a shadow of the person I wanted to be." The relief he felt after stepping down was palpable.

Despite a mixed record of 27 wins, 27 defeats, and 11 draws during his first tenure, Root is now taking on the responsibility again. This reappointment underscores a perceived shortage of leadership options within the current England setup, especially after former captain Ben Stokes's retirement from international cricket in June.

“

The last couple of years, it (the captaincy) sucked the life out of me. I was a shadow of the person I wanted to be... Once I'd made the decision it was a real relief.