Root takes over as England's Test captain

Joe Root, who had been operating vice-captain under his predecessor, Alastair Cook, since May 2015, had his promotion officially confirmed after it was approved by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Joe Root (left) had been Alastair Cook's (right) deputy since May 2015.

Joe Root has been named as new Test captain of England, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Monday.

Yorkshire batsman Root, previously England's vice-captain, had been the overwhelming favourite to replace Alastair Cook ever since the Essex opener resigned as Test skipper after a national record 59 matches in charge last week.

Root, who made his England debut under Cook, is now widely regarded as England's leading 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."