Joe Root has been named England’s new Test captain. 

Previously England’s vice-captain, Root had been the overwhelming favourite to replace Alastair Cook who resigned as Test skipper after 59 matches.

Root, who made his England debut under Cook, is regarded as their best batsman.

‘It is a huge honour to be given the England Test captaincy,’ Root said in an ECB statement. ‘I feel privileged, humbled and very excited.

‘We have a very good group of players and I’m looking forward to leading them out in the summer, building on Alastair’s achievements and making the most of our talents in the years ahead. The senior guys in the changing room play a very influential role and whilst there’s a natural progression for me, it’s a huge support to know that they are there to help and advise.’

The 26-year-old’s first hurdle as Test captain will be South Africa, in a four-match Test series after the ICC Champions Trophy in his home country. The first match will begin on July 6 and Root will face a team who he has played four times, scoring 386 runs at an average of 55.15 (three fifties and one century).