It has been revealed today that Durham's Ben Stokes will step up to act as England Cricket Teams new Test Captain, following the resignation of Joe Root earlier this month.
The 30-year-old who was born in Christchurch, New Zealand, made his Test debut in 2013 against Australia, after pledging his international allegiance to England in 2011.
And after 79 Test Matches with the squad, scoring 5,061 runs and bowling 10,250 balls, all-rounder Stokes has stepped up to the plate to lead his country going forward.
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The new role was announced by England on social media this morning, in a post that read: "Congratulations to our new Men's Test captain, @benstokes38."
Stokes will in-turn fill the shoes of batter Root, who stepped down earlier this month after five years in charge. The 31-year-old led England in a record 64 tests during his tenure as captain.
And there was no feelings of hardship between the two, with Root also taking to social media to wish Stokes well in his new position. Sharing a photo of the two embracing, he wrote: "Always got each other’s backs. Congratulations mate, I’ll be right with you every step of the way."
Stokes also said: "Thanks for all the messages, proud day for me and my family. I love playing cricket for England, see you at Lord’s."
And the North East wasted no time in congratulating the new captain on his succession, including his club Durham who shared profound messages of pride and joy. On Twitter, they posted: "England's new Test captain. Durham is proud of you, @benstokes38."
Sports fans from the region as well as celebrities from further afield also shared positive messages as the new captain begins his journey with England Cricket Club.
Piers Morgan, wrote: Congrats to @benstokes38 on becoming England’s new cricket captain. Can’t think of a finer choice - magnificent player, great guy, loved & respected by his teammates, and feared by opponents all over the world.
"Good luck Ben & when the time comes, bring those Ashes home!"
Former cricketer, Michael Vaughan, said: "Good luck with the best job in world sport @benstokes38..I think you are going to make a fine Test skipper," while Lords Cricket Ground added: "Congratulations, Ben. We look forward to you leading the Test team out for the first time in June."
Sam Hill, said: "Great choice for captain good luck," while James Flett added: "Good luck Ben, absolutely the right man for the job."
Kieren Bushnell, wrote: "Absolutely thrilled for you Ben. You will lead by example and inspire. Couldn't be happier to see you in the role.
"Good luck, and looking forward to you and your team bringing the smile back to England cricket."
Do you think that Stokes is the right man for the job? Let us know in the comments section.
