Harry Brook named England men’s white-ball captain for T20s and ODIs

Harry Brook has been named as England’s new white-ball captain, with Rob Key, the director of men’s cricket, praising the Yorkshireman’s “excellent cricketing brain” but also admitting the opportunity has come “slightly earlier than expected”.

Brook, 26, will take charge of both the T20 and ODI teams despite Key admitting last month he was considering offering the latter to Ben Stokes. Instead, Stokes will remain focused on leading the Test side and next winter’s Ashes moonshot, as well as his own return fitness after hamstring surgery at the start of the year.

“It’s a real honour to be named England’s white-ball captain,” said Brook, who is currently resting at the start of the summer after pulling out of the Indian Premier League.

“Ever since I was a kid playing cricket at Burley in Wharfedale, I dreamed of representing Yorkshire, playing for England, and maybe one day leading the team. To now be given that chance means a great deal to me. I’m excited to get going and give it everything I’ve got.”

As vice-captain previously, Brook was always the frontrunner for the vacancy after Jos Buttler stood down in the wake of a dismal Champions Trophy campaign in Pakistan. Nevertheless, his role as a three-format England player – and the packed international schedule – means this promotion is not without potential issues down the line.

Alternatives were thin on ground however, while Brook also offered a glimpse of his promise when leading England during last summer’s 3-2 ODI defeat to Australia. Although Brook’s side lost the decider, he averaged 78 with the bat during the series. His previous leadership experience includes captaincy of England Under-19s.

Key said: “I’m delighted that Harry Brook has accepted the role as England’s white-ball captain across both formats. He’s been part of our succession planning for some time, albeit this opportunity has come slightly earlier than expected.

“Harry is not only an outstanding cricketer, but also has an excellent cricketing brain and a clear vision for both teams that will help drive us towards winning more series, World Cups and major global tournaments.”

Those global tournaments continue to come thick and fast, with the next T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India taking place in early 2026 – just weeks after the five-Test Ashes series in Australia – and the next 50-over tournament being held in southern Africa in late 2027.

Brook’s first assignment will be the visit of West Indies in late May, with three ODIs followed by three T20 internationals.