Jos Buttler Resigns as England’s Limited-Overs Captain Following Champions Trophy Exit
Jos Buttler has officially stepped down as England’s white-ball captain after a disappointing Champions Trophy campaign, where the team failed to reach the semi-finals.
Announcing his decision at a press conference, the 34-year-old stated, “I’m stepping down as England captain. It’s the right choice for both myself and the team.”
England’s campaign began with a five-wicket loss to arch-rivals Australia, followed by an eight-run defeat against tournament debutants Afghanistan in Lahore, leading to their elimination. Buttler made the announcement ahead of England’s final Champions Trophy match against South Africa in Karachi, which he will captain for the last time.
Appointed captain in June 2022 after Eoin Morgan’s retirement, Buttler led England to a T20 World Cup triumph in Australia later that year. However, the team has since struggled, failing to reach the finals in three consecutive ICC tournaments—the 2023 ODI World Cup, the 2024 T20 World Cup, and the 2025 Champions Trophy.
Following England’s latest defeat to Afghanistan, their ninth loss in 10 white-ball matches this year, Buttler hinted at his resignation, questioning whether he was “part of the problem or part of the solution.” Reflecting on his tenure, he admitted disappointment but acknowledged that change was necessary.
“This tournament was crucial for results and my leadership. Two early losses made it clear that it was time for a change. It’s disappointing, but I know this is the right moment for both myself and the team,” he said.
Buttler had initially been optimistic about working with newly appointed head coach Brendon McCullum. However, he admitted that the turnaround he had hoped for did not materialize. “With Brendon coming in, I was excited about the possibilities, but things haven’t worked out as expected. Now feels like the right time for a fresh start,” he added.
With Buttler stepping down, Harry Brook, the current vice-captain, is considered the leading candidate to take over the role. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is expected to announce his successor in the coming weeks.
Buttler’s leadership saw England secure their second T20 World Cup title in 2022, but the team has struggled to maintain its dominance. Last year, Australian coach Matthew Mott resigned following England’s T20 World Cup semi-final exit against eventual champions India. Former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum was then brought in to rejuvenate England’s limited-overs cricket.
Buttler’s resignation marks the end of an era, signaling a new chapter for England’s white-ball squad.
