England’s limited-overs skipper Jos Buttler has stepped down from his role following the team’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy. The decision comes after England suffered consecutive defeats, including a five-wicket loss to Australia and a shock eight-run defeat against tournament debutants Afghanistan.
Announcing his resignation ahead of England’s final match against South Africa, Buttler stated, “I’m going to stand down as England captain. It’s the right decision for me, for the team and for someone else to take charge alongside Baz (coach Brendon McCullum) to bring England back to where it needs to be.”
The 34-year-old had hinted at reconsidering his future as captain but had vowed not to make any emotional decisions. However, England’s struggles in white-ball cricket, combined with their recent poor form in global tournaments, ultimately led to his decision.
Buttler took over the captaincy from Eoin Morgan in June 2022 and led England to their second T20 World Cup title later that year. However, the team has struggled since, recording 22 defeats in 34 ODIs and failing to defend their T20 and ODI World Cup titles.
Following England’s disappointing T20 World Cup semi-final exit last year, Australian coach Matthew Mott also stepped down, leaving McCullum to oversee a revival in white-ball cricket.
Speculation is already mounting over Buttler’s successor, with former England captain Nasser Hussain naming batter Harry Brook as a strong candidate. Brook, who captained England in an ODI series against Australia last September, is currently serving as vice-captain in the Champions Trophy.
England’s next assignment will be a one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May, followed by a white-ball series at home against the West Indies.