Jos Buttler steps down as England captain
KARACHI: England’s wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler has stepped down as team captain following their early exit from the Champions Trophy. He made the announcement during a press conference at the National Bank Cricket Stadium on Friday, just before England’s final group-stage match against South Africa on March 1.
Speaking about his decision, Buttler acknowledged England’s underwhelming performances during his tenure as a key factor in stepping down.
“I’ve decided to step down as England captain. It’s the right call for me and the team,” Buttler stated. “Hopefully, a new leader can work closely with Baz (coach Brendon McCullum) to bring the team back to its best.”
Reflecting on England’s campaign, he added: “This tournament was crucial for my captaincy, and after two losses and an early elimination—on top of previous disappointments—I feel like I’ve reached the end of the road. It’s a tough decision, and I’m disappointed, but it’s the right one.”
Buttler captained England in 44 ODIs, securing 18 wins and suffering 25 defeats. Despite leading the team to their second T20 World Cup triumph in 2022 with a victory over Pakistan in the final at Melbourne, he has since overseen three consecutive major tournament setbacks.
England became the first team from Group B to be eliminated from the eight-team tournament after consecutive defeats to Australia and Afghanistan.
In their opening match, England posted a record-breaking 351/8—the highest total in Champions Trophy history—led by Ben Duckett’s stunning 165 off 143 balls. However, Australia chased down the target in 47.3 overs, powered by Josh Inglis’ explosive 120 off 86 balls, Alex Carey’s composed 69 off 63, and Glenn Maxwell’s quickfire 32 off 15.
Their campaign took a further hit in Lahore, where they suffered a shocking eight-run loss to Afghanistan at Gaddafi Stadium. Batting first, Afghanistan posted 325/7, courtesy of Ibrahim Zadran’s magnificent 177 off 146 deliveries. In response, England fell short at 317 all out, despite Joe Root’s fighting 120, as Azmatullah Omarzai’s five-wicket haul sealed a historic win for Afghanistan.
