England has named Harry Brook as their new captain for the formats: T20 International (T20Is) and One-Day International (ODIs). The 26-year-old will take over from Jos Buttler, who resigned after England’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In this article we will discuss how Harry Brook became captain and the reason behind Jos Buttler decision to step down.
From Vice-Captain to Captain: Harry Brook’s Rise
Since 2022, Brook has been a major player for England and his appointment as captain was anticipated due to his past year’s vice-captain service. Brook, who is known for his explosive batting and cool on-field behavior, is also currently placed No. 2 in the ICC Men’s Test Batting Rankings, making him a consistent player across all formats of the game.
Early on in his leadership path, he captained the England U19 squad for the 2018 World Cup. Last year, he stepped in to captain the squad against Australia in the ODI series when Buttler was not available. Both supporters and colleagues have complimented Brook for his keen awareness of the game and calm leadership. Now, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has officially appointed him as the captain.
“It’s a real honour to be named England’s white-ball captain. I’ve dreamt of this moment since I was a kid, and I’m grateful for the chance to lead this incredibly talented group. I can’t wait to get started.” Brook stated to the ECB .
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Harry Brook to Captain England in West Indies Series
In later summer, Harry Brook will start his journey as England’s white-ball captain when England is to play against West Indies in three ODIs and three T20Is starting on 29 May. He will also lead the team in a white-ball series against South Africa in September. After that, he will take the team to Ireland for a T20I series, which will be the last part of England’s summer schedule.
England’s cricket calendar is full not just with white-ball matches, but also six home Test matches and several overseas tours. Still, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) believes Brook can handle the pressure because he plays as a specialist batter. Brook, also, pulled out of the IPL this year to stay focused on national duties and to plan for the long term career enhancement.
Brook already has his eyes on the future. He plans to prepare for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, and the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa. As the youngest England white-ball captain in recent years, Brook now holds the responsibility and the support he needs to start a bold new chapter in English cricket.
Jos Buttler Steps Down Following Champions Trophy Exit
Jos Buttler started his time as England captain with a victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup, but ended it on a disappointing note. England lost all of their games in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This followed dismal performances at the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) faced much criticism for the poor results, which forced Buttler to leave as captain. Despite his decision to step down, Buttler declared that he would continue to play for England in all formats.
There were brief discussions about giving Ben Stokes the ODI captaincy, but concerns about his workload and recovery from illness made this unlikely.
Rob Key, the ECB’s managing director, stated that Harry Brook was part of their long-term strategy for the captaincy. Although the decision came sooner than expected, the board remains confident in Brook’s leadership abilities.
“Harry is an exceptional player with a smart cricketing mind. He has the vision and drive to take this team forward,” Key said.
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