Stuart Broad named England vice-captain for Test series against New Zealand

England captain Joe Root on Tuesday confirmed that fast bowler Stuart Broad will be his deputy for the 2-Test series against New Zealand, starting June 2 at Lord's London. Broad will take up the role in the absence of Ben Stokes who has been ruled out of the tour with an injury he picked up during the now-suspending Indian Premier League.

Ben Stokes had lead England against West Indies last year in the absence of Joe Root. Jos Buttler has also been England's vice-captain in Tests in the past but the Rajasthan Royals star has been rested following the IPL.

Stuart Broad has led England in white-ball formats in the past but this is his first stint in a leadership role with the Test side. Broad has led England in 27 T20Is and 3 ODIs between 2011 and 2014.

Even James Anderson, who is



England's most experienced player in the Test squad, had been vice-captain in the past.

England will take on New Zealand in the first of a 2-match Test series from June 2 at Lord's. The 2nd Test will be played from June 10 in Birmingham. England will be without some of their key stars, including Stokes, Buttler and Jofra Archer who has been ruled out with an injury.

Meanwhile, Gloucestershire wicketkeeper-batsman James Bracey will make his debut in the 1st Test, Root has confirmed. Bracey, 24-year-old, has averaged over 50 while batting in top 3 for his county side.

Crowds are set to return to cricket matches in England as close to 7000 fans will be allowed for the 1st Test in London. The limit is expected to increase for the 2nd Test as UK is on the process of relaxing Covid-19 restrictions.