England’s long-serving batter Joe Root confirmed today that he will retire from international cricket at the end of the 2025–26 Ashes series. Speaking at a media conference at Lord’s, Root England’s leading Test run-scorer said he made the decision after “careful reflection” on his career and his family’s needs.
Root, 33, finishes with 12,472 Test runs at an average of 50.41, including 30 centuries and a record 27 away hundreds. His swashbuckling 228 at Adelaide in 2022 and match-saving 142 at Headingley in 2019 remain etched in Ashes folklore. In ODIs, he amassed 5,303 runs across 110 matches.
“I’ve been privileged to wear the England shirt for 13 years,” Root said. “But it’s time for a new chapter both for me and for the next generation of players coming through.” He added that the fourth Test at Old Trafford in early December would be his final appearance.
England head coach Brendon McCullum paid tribute: “Joe’s consistency and class have set the benchmark for England batting. He’ll leave a huge void, but also a lasting legacy.” Captain Ben Stokes echoed the sentiment, calling Root “a rock for this team and one of the greats of our game.”
Selectors now face the task of finding Root’s successor at No. 4. Ollie Pope and Harry Brook are front-runners, but England will enter the Ashes with “eyes wide open,” Root said, confident in the squad’s depth.
Root indicated he plans to stay involved in cricket, with interests in coaching and broadcast work. “This isn’t goodbye to the game I’m just changing my role,” he added.
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