London [UK]: England leg-spinner Adil Rashid has thrown his support behind newly appointed white-ball captain Harry Brook, expressing confidence in the young batter’s leadership potential ahead of a pivotal transition phase in English cricket.
Brook, who replaced Jos Buttler following a string of disappointing ICC tournament campaigns, is set to captain both ODI and T20I squads, beginning with England’s home series against West Indies starting May 29. The change in leadership comes after England’s winless run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, as well as title defence failures in both the 2023 Cricket World Cup and 2024 T20 World Cup.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe on May 22 at Nottingham, Rashid shared his views on Brook’s readiness:
“I am sure he (Brook) is ready, but when someone takes over the captaincy, it is not an overnight thing. He has got time; he has done well so far with what he has done,” Rashid said.
The veteran spinner praised Brook’s calm demeanor, tactical mindset, and the respect he commands within the team.
“He has a real positive mindset. He is quiet, but that is a good thing as well because he has that respect in the dressing room on and off the pitch. I am sure he will be a very good leader.”
Rashid emphasized that Brook’s elevation was not a rushed decision but a carefully considered move by England’s management.
“It is a big task, but they gave it to him because they believe he is the one. We all believe he can be the leader and captain of the ODIs and T20s.”
Brook will continue to play Test cricket as a specialist batter, allowing him to focus on leadership duties in white-ball formats.
Rashid on England’s Future and His Role
Now 37, Rashid remains enthusiastic about being a central figure in England’s white-ball future under Brook and head coach Brendon McCullum, who is set for his first home assignment as white-ball head coach.
“Yeah, 100 per cent looking forward to it. It is a new era, with a new captain and new faces as well… an exciting challenge,” he said.
Rashid, who has played 292 international matches, took three wickets in three matches during the recent ICC Champions Trophy. He is focused on helping England rebuild ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
“We are building towards that [T20 World Cup] and making sure when we get to that stage, we are ready.”