Ben Stokes breaks silence on England’s captaincy call: ‘My only worry is Joe’

Ben Stokes has set his sights on a future in coaching, revealing he would “absolutely” love to lead England from the dressing room once his playing days are over.

Speaking on the For the Love of Cricket podcast, the former England Test captain said he is already completing his Level 3 coaching qualification to ensure he is ready for life after retirement.

“I know what I want to do… I’d love to be coach of England one day,” said the 35-year-old, who retired from international cricket during the third Test against New Zealand in June.

Stokes also admitted he was surprised Harry Brook did not succeed him as England’s Test captain, while expressing concern over Joe Root’s return to the role. Root, who captained England between 2017 and 2022, won a record 27 Tests in 65 matches but stepped down after a difficult spell that included a 4-0 Ashes defeat and a run of one win in 17 Tests.

“I wish him nothing but success,” Stokes said. “My only worry is just Joe. I saw what he went through last time. He always puts the team first and himself second. I don’t want to see that happen again.”

Root will work alongside new Test coach Stephen Fleming, who replaced Brendon McCullum after England’s disappointing run of results.

Stokes also dismissed speculation of a rift with McCullum during their time together. “We never once fell out,” he said. “Did we have different opinions? One hundred per cent. But did we have a fallout? Absolutely not.”

Published on Aug 04, 2026