'Role model for up and coming English cricketers' - World reacts to Joe Root stepping down as England Test captain
Root led England in 64 matches, winning 27 of those Tests. But a string of poor performances, including a 4-0 drubbing against Australia in the Ashes and an away 1-0 series defeat against West Indies led many to question his position as the captain of the side. The results left England languishing at the bottom of the World Test Championship table.
Thank You, @root66 ❤️
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) April 15, 2022
Announcing his decision, Root said in a statement, "After returning from the Caribbean tour and having time to reflect, I have decided to step down as England Men’s Test Captain.
"It has been the most challenging decision I have had to make in my career but having discussed this with my family and those closest to me; I know the timing is right."
After his decision, many former and current players were quick to react on the announcement, hailing Joe Root and his leadership abilities.
Sometimes in sport results & performances (good & bad) can get in the way of peoples judgement of the actual person. @root66 is a great human being first & foremost and I can’t imagine how hard a decision this has been for him. Congrats on all you did as @englandcricket captain
— Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) April 15, 2022
He gave it everything with very little support for the Red ball team under his watch .. then he had to deal with Covid times .. he still is and will the games best role model for many many years .. now enjoy being the senior player for many more seasons @root66 👍👍
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) April 15, 2022
There’s no doubt about it @root66 is a top quality player and human being and role model for up and coming English cricketers but I feel England do need a new captain despite limited choices. Joe lacked a feel for the game and was not willing to take a risk to win a game.
— Mark Waugh (@juniorwaugh349) April 15, 2022
Breaking News! @root66 JOE ROOT resigns as Captain of England @englandcricket saying how much the job has taken its toll on him over the last five years. No obvious successor to pick up the reins.
— Alan Wilkins (@alanwilkins22) April 15, 2022
Great captain, even better bloke. Thank you for everything @root66 pic.twitter.com/4O3dUX6du3
— Jos Buttler (@josbuttler) April 15, 2022
No one can ever doubt your commitment and efforts to the team! @root66 🙏🏼 https://t.co/elMmbMkxxK
— Sam Billings (@sambillings) April 15, 2022
It now remains to be seen who will be appointed as Joe Root's successor, with a big task ahead of him to turn England's fortunes around before a bumper home summer.