Joe Root has begun his second stint as England Test captain, calling for his team to act as role models following a period of off-field turmoil.

Joe Root has officially returned as England's Test captain, succeeding Ben Stokes at the start of a three-match series against Pakistan beginning Wednesday at Headingley. Root, 35, emphasized the need for the team to act as "really good role models and human beings" following a summer marked by disciplinary issues and poor results. This marks the start of a new era for the side following the retirement of Stokes and the dismissal of coach Brendon McCullum.

Addressing recent team challenges

The England Test team enters this series following a difficult period that included a 2-1 series defeat to New Zealand and various off-field incidents, such as a team curfew breach by Stokes and previous issues during tours of Australia and New Zealand. Root, who previously captained England in 65 Tests between 2017 and 2022, stated his intent to bring a sense of calm to the squad while focusing on versatile performances rather than strictly replicating the attacking style of the previous leadership.

Team changes and upcoming selection

While Stephen Fleming has been appointed as the new head coach, batting coach Marcus Trescothick will serve as interim manager for the Pakistan series. Root has not yet confirmed the final XI, though reports suggest Surrey all-rounder Dan Lawrence may replace Stokes at number six. The team is currently evaluating a group of seven pace bowlers to fill four spots in the attack. Meanwhile, Pakistan captain Babar Azam will miss the first Test due to a hand injury sustained in a warm-up match, with Salman Ali Agha set to captain the side in his absence.