England’s white-ball era is set to embark on a bold new chapter, with 26-year-old Harry Brook officially named as the captain of both the ODI and T20I sides. The announcement, made on Monday (April 7), marks a significant moment in Brook’s young career, as he steps into the shoes of Jos Buttler, who stepped down following England’s disappointing group-stage exit at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Brook’s rise to captaincy has been rapid but far from surprising. Since making his international debut against the West Indies in January 2022, he has been a regular presence in England’s white-ball squads. With 26 ODIs and 44 T20Is under his belt, Brook has already showcased his ability to adapt and perform under pressure. His 816 ODI runs at an average of 34 and a highest T20I score of 81 speak volumes of his consistency. Notably, he was part of the victorious T20 World Cup squad in 2022.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) lauded Brook’s cricketing acumen, highlighting his experience as vice-captain over the past year and his leadership stint during the Metro Bank ODI series against Australia in 2024, where he stood in for Buttler. His calm demeanor and tactical awareness drew praise, reinforcing his credentials as a future leader.
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“It’s a real honour,” Harry Brook said in an emotional statement. “As a kid growing up playing cricket at Burley in Wharfedale, I dreamt of playing for Yorkshire, wearing the England shirt, and maybe even leading the side. To be given that opportunity now means the world to me.”
CAPTAIN BROOK 🦜
Harry Brook is our new Men’s ODI and IT20 captain!
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— England Cricket (@englandcricket) April 7, 2025
He credited his family and coaches for their unwavering support, saying, “Their belief in me made all the difference. I wouldn’t be here without them.”
Brook’s leadership journey has its roots in youth cricket—he captained England’s U19 squad at the 2018 World Cup in New Zealand, where he was widely regarded as a player with both maturity and flair.
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Rob Key, Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, expressed full faith in Harry Brook, stating: “Harry’s a special talent and has been part of our long-term plans. His cricketing brain and vision for both formats will be key to our future success.”
Brook’s first full assignment as England’s white-ball skipper will come later this May when the Three Lions host the West Indies for a six-match white-ball series—three ODIs and three T20Is.
