[WATCH] Former England captain calls for change in England’s captaincy in Ben Stokes’ absence during ENG vs IND 5th Test

The former England captain, Michael Vaughan, has called for a change of captaincy during the times when Ben Stokes, the regular leader, would be out of the team, whether due to a break or injury management. He thought that Ollie Pope, despite being the best vice-captain of the side, doesn’t guarantee to be a great leader of the team.

Ben Stokes had to sit out of the fifth and final Test of the series against India at Kennington Oval with a shoulder injury that he picked up during the fourth fixture at Old Trafford in Manchester. There is a countdown for him to get fully prepared for the upcoming opening Ashes 2025/26 Test at Optus Stadium in Perth.

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‘The England side with Ben Stokes as a captain, I think they can beat anybody. The England side without Ben Stokes, I think they can lose to anybody. I think he is that big a player. What they have got to be careful of, and I have said that before, is that sometimes, and I have a look at Ollie Pope, who looks a fantastic vice-captain. He is a brilliant person to have next to the captain and come up with ideas.’ Michael Vaughan expressed this during the BBC Test Match Special show.

Watch: Michael Vaughan wants Harry Brook to lead England in Ben Stokes’ absence

‘Sometimes, vice-captains are not brilliant captains. You know, Marcus Trescothick was a magnificent vice-captain for me, but you wouldn’t want to give him the captaincy. And I just think whether it’s worth England thinking, Harry to me looks like a leader. He looks like a born leader. We have seen him in white-ball cricket.’ The Yorkshire batter observed.

Should Ollie Pope stay as England vice-captain when Ben Stokes is out injured?@MichaelVaughan believes Harry Brook has what it takes to step up as captain in the event of another absence 🫡 #BBCCricket #ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/nvVMLwHs07

— Test Match Special (@bbctms) August 2, 2025

He also pointed out that the side wasn’t in a bad state due to Pope’s leadership, but because of the catches they dropped throughout the innings, it gave India a chance to pile up the runs and put pressure on them.

‘And if Ben Stokes is injured in the future, can’t Ollie just stay as the vice-captain and Harry Brook get the leadership role? Look, it’s not Ollie Pope’s fault that England are in this position. It’s certainly not his. It’s the catching that lets them down. But I just want the best captain who is the best leader leading the side.’ Vaughan concluded.