Joe Root would lead England as captain when they face West Indies next month in their first Test fixture after losing to Australia at the Ashes. Root is one of the key people to retain his position after director of cricket, Ashley Giles, Coach Chris Silverwood, and assistant coach Graham Thorpe all left their roles weeks after the Ashes defeat.

Root would bat in the upcoming Test at number 3, instead of his usual number 4, where he has proven to be more competent. But he said that he was looking forward to playing in the position as he now has a better understanding of the game: “I am ready for that. It’s the first time it has sat really comfortably with me. I have a lot of clarity, a better understanding of my game.

“I have expressed in the past that I prefer batting at No 4, but I am ready to take that on now. I think that’s the best way I can help us become a better team. I feel I have the skills to bat in that position.”

Root also expressed that he is still very passionate about leading the team and believes that he is the right man for the job.

The England squad to West Indies would not include James Anderson and Stuart Broad, two members that have always featured in Test games. The two players are a bit disappointed about the development, with Anderson “praying” that it would not be the end of his England cricket career: “I’m praying this isn’t the end, but if I never play for England again, I know I’ve got amazing people around me to support me, and that’s really important.”

Skipper Root revealed that he has spoken to the two players and emphasised that their career was not coming to an end, as they could likely be part of the squad for competitions in the summer.

Written by: Leon Osamor