Brook was chosen for the vice-captain role over experienced players like Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt, both of whom have led England in the past
21 January, 2025
PHOTO: AFP
England has appointed star batter Harry Brook as the new vice-captain for their ODI and T20I teams, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Monday. Brook will assist captain Jos Buttler, starting with the upcoming white-ball series against India, which begins on January 22 in Kolkata.
The 25-year-old, who debuted in T20Is in 2022, has become a key player for England, with 20 ODIs and 39 T20Is to his name. He has also previously captained England in an ODI series against Australia last year, showcasing his leadership potential.
Brook was chosen for the vice-captain role over experienced players like Liam Livingstone and Phil Salt, both of whom have led England in the past.
Brook’s first assignment as vice-captain will be the three-match ODI and T20I series against India. He is also expected to play a crucial role in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be held in Pakistan and the UAE. England’s group-stage matches will take place in Pakistan, while the semifinal venue will depend on India’s qualification.
England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, shared insights about the team’s plans during a press conference in Kolkata. He revealed that Jos Buttler would play as a specialist batter during the India series.
“I think he (Buttler) won’t be keeping wickets in this series. He’s going to catch them from the field, and I think that’s a really positive thing for us because it gives Jos the opportunity to have the last say with the bowler,” McCullum said.
In Buttler’s absence behind the stumps, wicket-keeping duties will likely be shared between Phil Salt and Jamie Smith.
