Joe Root returns as England Test captain, Stephen Fleming appointed head coach

England have announced the return of Joe Root as captain of the Test team, while former New Zealand skipper Stephen Fleming has been appointed as the team's new head coach.

The 53-year-old Fleming has never previously served as head coach of a national side. However, he is regarded as one of the most successful coaches in franchise cricket, having guided Chennai Super Kings to a record five Indian Premier League (IPL) titles during his 17-year tenure with the franchise.

Fleming replaces his former New Zealand teammate Brendon McCullum, who was relieved of his duties as England's Test coach earlier this month following the team's inconsistent performances and several off-field issues.

McCullum, however, will continue as head coach of England's white-ball teams.

Meanwhile, Joe Root returns to lead England's Test side after previously serving as captain from 2017 to 2022. During his first spell in charge, the 35-year-old led England in 65 Tests, winning 27 matches.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hopes the appointments of Fleming and Root will help revive the team's fortunes in the longest format of the game.