Sydney: Former Australia captain Ian Chappell feels England’s troubles may increase if all-rounder Ben Stokes does not show interest in becoming the Test captain. Stokes could be named the next Test captain of the England team ahead of the three-match series against New Zealand in June.
“There is only one viable captaincy option in the best XI and that is all-rounder Ben Stokes. If he doesn’t show interest in the job seriously, England could be in trouble,” Chappell was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo on Sunday.
Chappell then went on to explain why he doesn’t see veteran pacer Stuart Broad and wicketkeeper Jos Buttler as possible substitutes for Test captaincy.
“Stuart Broad is an intelligent well spoken player, but he shouldn’t be considered captaincy. He is old now and may face trouble while fielding,” he added.
At the same time, he added, “Jos Buttler is not a Test wicketkeeper. He has no clear place in the first playing XI.”
Irrespective of England’s Test captain, Chappell feels that the future captain will have to reform England as a holistic unit, especially with regard to the batsmen.
“Whoever becomes the captain. Their initial job will be to improve the under-performing England team. It is a captain’s job. To improve the results of any team,” he said.
Chappell said that if Stokes is made the Test captain, he may include the uncapped pair of leg-spinner Matt Parkinson and pacer Jamie Overton in the team.
first published:April 25, 2022, 3:27 p.m.
