'I know the timing is right': Joe Root steps down as England men's test cricket captain

Joe Root has stepped down as captain of the England men's test cricket team.

Root was appointed as Sir Alastair Cook's successor in 2017, and led the side to a number of famous series victories.

He said: "After returning from the Caribbean tour and having time to reflect, I have decided to step down as England Men's Test Captain.

"It has been the most challenging decision I have had to make in my career but having discussed this with my family and those closest to me; I know the timing is right."

Root holds the record for the most number of matches and wins as England Men's Test captain, with his 27 victories putting him ahead of cricket greats Michael Vaughan, Sir Alastair Cook, and Sir Andrew Strauss

"I am immensely proud to have captained my country and will look back on the past five years with enormous pride.

"It has been an honour to have done the job and to have been a custodian of what is the pinnacle of English cricket."