Joe Root rules out white-ball captaincy after Jos Buttler's resignation
What's the story
Seasoned England batter Joe Root has firmly ruled out any possibility of stepping into the shoes of the captain for the white-ball team.
The announcement comes after Jos Buttler's recent resignation from the post.
Root stressed that he believes his time as a captain is over and is now fully focused on playing for England in their upcoming Test series against India and The Ashes in Australia later this year.
Here's more.
Reflection
Root's comments on England's Champions Trophy performance
Root also shared his views on England's dismal showing in the recently concluded Champions Trophy, where they lost all three of their group-stage matches.
He admitted that the team didn't perform well but was confident about its future.
"We didn't play anywhere near what we're capable of, but there's so much talent and so much more to come from that team," he said, as quoted by Sky Sports.
Future focus
England's upcoming challenges and Root's perspective
The next big challenge for England is a five-match home Test series against India, beginning June 20.
After this, they will turn their attention to The Ashes in Australia, a contest they haven't won on Aussie soil since 2010-11.
Root was excited about the upcoming series, saying: "These are the years you play for -- two of the biggest teams, two of the biggest series as an England player. It's something the team is relishing."
Preparation
Root's mindset and preparation for upcoming series
Before taking on India, England will warm up with a four-day Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge from May 22.
Known for his relentless hunger to improve, Root revealed his mindset: "As soon as you lose that drive, it's time to call it a day. You're constantly looking to evolve, never wanting to stand still."
He emphasized on pushing himself and helping the team grow, ahead of these challenging series.
Stats
Root's stellar Test career at a glance
Root has scored 12,972 runs in his stellar Test career at an average of 50.87.
He also owns 36 tons and 65 fifties across 152 matches.
According to ESPNcricinfo, his highest Test score is 262 (278 innings).
Overall, he is currently the fifth-highest run-getter in the format.