Islamabad, February 28, 2025: England’s white-ball cricket captain, Jos Buttler, has announced that he will step down from the role following the team’s campaign in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 34-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman made this decision ahead of England’s final league-stage clash against South Africa.
“It feels like the right decision for both me and the team,” Buttler stated during a press conference. “I hope someone else can work alongside Baz [Brendon McCullum] to guide the team back to where it needs to be.”
England’s Early Exit Influences Buttler’s Decision
Buttler’s resignation comes in the wake of England’s elimination from the Champions Trophy, following disappointing losses to Australia and Afghanistan in Lahore. England’s struggles were apparent even before the tournament, having endured a 0-3 ODI series defeat against India.
“It was clear that our performance in this tournament would determine my future as captain,” Buttler admitted. “With two losses and an early exit, combined with past struggles, I feel my time as captain has come to an end.”
Jos Buttler’s Captaincy: A Mixed Journey
Buttler took over England’s white-ball leadership from Eoin Morgan in 2022 and made an immediate impact, leading the team to victory in the ICC T20 World Cup that year. However, England’s performance declined in subsequent tournaments:
- 2023 ODI World Cup: Failed to progress past the group stage.
- 2024 T20 World Cup: Knocked out in the semifinals.
- 2025 Champions Trophy: Eliminated in the group stage.
In an attempt to revive England’s form, the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) appointed Brendon McCullum as the head coach of the white-ball teams in 2025. Despite the change, England’s performances continued to struggle, with the team losing nine of their ten white-ball matches this year.
“It’s disappointing,” Buttler reflected. “I was excited to work with Brendon and hoped for a quick turnaround, but unfortunately, things didn’t work out as planned.”
Harry Brook Poised to Take Over as England’s Next Captain
As Buttler prepares to step down, England’s current vice-captain, Harry Brook, is the frontrunner to take over the leadership role. Betting site Betfair lists Brook as the favorite at 1/2 odds, while other contenders include:
- Liam Livingstone (5/1) – Led England during Buttler’s absence on the West Indies tour.
- Ben Duckett (9/1)
- Phil Salt (9/1)
Brook was officially appointed vice-captain ahead of the Champions Trophy and led England in their summer series against Australia, which they lost 3-2.
Brook Faces Scrutiny Despite Leadership Potential
While Brook remains the leading candidate for England’s captaincy, his recent performances have drawn criticism. During the Champions Trophy and England’s tour of India, he struggled against spin bowling and made controversial media comments.
His dismissal against Afghanistan—falling to a soft caught-and-bowled chance—prompted Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar to mock his previous complaints about smog in India affecting England’s performance against spin.
Despite this, Brook remains England’s top choice to succeed Buttler and will be expected to lead the team in a new direction after their disappointing campaign.
Conclusion
Jos Buttler’s tenure as England’s white-ball captain will be remembered for its highs and lows. While he delivered a T20 World Cup triumph, England’s recent struggles have led to his decision to step aside. With a new era on the horizon, all eyes are on Harry Brook and the ECB as they prepare to name England’s next white-ball captain.
Stay tuned for more updates on England’s leadership transition and upcoming international fixtures.