'Be adults': Root scraps the curfew that helped end the Stokes era in his first act as captain

Joe Root has moved swiftly to stamp his own identity on the England Test captaincy, abolishing the team's midnight curfew as his first significant act back in the role. The rule, which was closely tied to the controversy that indirectly led to Ben Stokes' international retirement, has been scrapped ahead of England's three-match series against Pakistan, with Root imploring his players to "be adults."

Returning to the captaincy he relinquished in 2022, Root has made clear his belief that such restrictions simply do not work, signalling a fresh, trust-based approach to team culture.

The rule is scrapped

Root's decision to remove the curfew came despite ECB guidelines released in July that had sought to formalise such measures. The England captain was unequivocal in his reasoning, arguing that curfews are ineffective and that his players should be trusted to conduct themselves responsibly.

Imploring his squad to behave like "grown adults," Root framed the move as a matter of common sense and mutual respect. It was a telling first statement of intent, establishing the tone he intends to set as he embarks on his second spell in charge.

The backdrop to the curfew

The context behind the rule makes its removal all the more significant. England's Test team had been dogged by alcohol-related issues since the away Ashes series in late 2025, prompting the introduction of protocols designed to curb off-field indiscretions.

Matters came to a head after the first Test against New Zealand at Lord's, when then-captain Stokes and Gus Atkinson were out beyond midnight, ending up at a Chelsea nightclub where Atkinson was attacked by a rugby player. The pair were effectively suspended for the following Test, and the episode became a defining controversy of the summer.

Confusion over the protocol

Part of the problem, it emerged, was a lack of clarity over the curfew itself. Atkinson reportedly informed managing director Rob Key that he had been unaware the curfew was in effect after that first Test.

That confusion led Key to immediately reinforce the measure. The episode ultimately contributed, at least indirectly, to Stokes' decision to retire from all international cricket at the end of the New Zealand series, bringing an era to a close and paving the way for Root's return.

Protecting Archer

Root also addressed another lesson from his first stint as captain, vowing to manage England's fast-bowling assets more carefully. He admitted to having "over-bowled" Jofra Archer during his earlier tenure and pledged to protect the pace bowler this time around.

Describing Archer as a "generational talent," Root made clear his determination to safeguard the quick's fitness and longevity. It reflected a more measured, considered approach from a captain who has clearly reflected on his previous experience in the role.

The door left open for Stokes

Perhaps most intriguingly, Root refused to rule out a return for Stokes, specifically with the 2027 Ashes in mind. Despite his close friend's retirement from international cricket, the possibility of a comeback for such a marquee series was not dismissed.

It leaves a tantalising subplot for the future, with the prospect of Stokes potentially featuring in England's biggest assignment remaining, however remote, a live topic. For now, though, Root's focus is firmly on the immediate challenge ahead.

A new coaching era

Root's return coincides with significant change in the coaching setup. He admitted to being "gutted" at the departure of former England Test head coach Brendon McCullum, with whom he had enjoyed considerable success.

However, he was quick to express his excitement about the incoming era under Stephen Fleming, the vastly experienced New Zealander whom he clearly admires. Root's enthusiasm for the new partnership suggests a smooth transition as England look to move forward.

Selection notes

On the playing front, there was news regarding England's squad for the Pakistan series. Rising star Jacob Bethell will miss the series, with the experienced Ollie Pope returning to the fold.

The reshuffle reflects the ongoing balancing act facing the England management as they blend emerging talent with established performers, all while navigating a demanding schedule that builds towards the 2027 Ashes.

The final word

Joe Root's first act as the returning England captain has been a clear and deliberate statement of philosophy. By scrapping the curfew and calling on his players to be adults, he has signalled a culture built on trust and personal responsibility, drawing a line under a turbulent period. Coupled with his commitment to protect Archer and his open-minded stance on Stokes, Root has laid out an early vision for his tenure. As England prepare to face Pakistan, all eyes will be on whether this fresh approach can translate into success on the field.