England’s Test setup is preparing for a significant leadership transition ahead of the 2025 Ashes, with Harry Brook emerging as the leading candidate to be named vice-captain. Head coach Brendon McCullum has openly hinted that the Yorkshire batter is the natural choice to succeed Ollie Pope in the deputy role, signaling a generational shift as England gear up for their most high-profile series of the cycle.
Brendon McCullum has described the upcoming Ashes as “the biggest series of our lives,” underscoring the importance of having a leadership group that reflects England’s attacking identity. Brook, who already captains England’s ODI and T20I sides, has reportedly impressed the management with his calmness under pressure and tactical awareness. Giving him the vice-captaincy in Tests would complete his transition from rising star to an all-format leader.
Ollie Pope, who has held the role since 2022, is still considered a key member of the Test setup, but this move would likely shift him back into a specialist batting role. It also suggests that McCullum and Ben Stokes are planning for long-term succession, as Stokes’ future beyond the next two years remains uncertain.
Aside from the vice-captaincy decision, England’s selectors are close to finalizing their Ashes squad. The core of the XI is settled, but discussions continue about the backup spinner slot. Shoaib Bashir is first-choice, with Rehan Ahmed favored to tour as the second spinner. England are also expected to travel with at least seven seamers, covering the heavy workload expected across a long series.
Player fitness is being watched carefully. Mark Wood, who has undergone knee surgery, has been managed with a view to being at full pace by the first Ashes Test. Ben Stokes is also taking cautious steps after his shoulder injury, and his availability as an all-rounder would drastically affect England’s balance. Having Brook as vice-captain ensures that England have a strong leadership presence even if Stokes is forced to miss sessions or matches.
Brook’s rise as a leader comes after an impressive run of form with the bat. His ability to dictate play in the middle order has become a cornerstone of England’s “Bazball” era. Adding responsibility could elevate him further, with many observers believing he has the temperament to thrive under pressure.
The move, however, is not without risk. Leadership changes before a marquee series can unsettle dressing-room dynamics if not handled well. McCullum and Stokes will need to manage communication carefully to ensure Pope remains motivated and focused on his batting.
Still, the potential upside is clear. Brook represents the fearless, aggressive brand of cricket that England want to carry into the Ashes. Naming him vice-captain now would signal that England are backing youth, energy, and clarity of vision to reclaim the urn in Australia.
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