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Stephen Fleming inherits intriguing squad after England’s unsettling summer | Ali Martin

Following a turbulent period for England's Test side, incoming head coach Stephen Fleming takes charge of an evolving lineup alongside captain Joe Root, whose steady presence is seen as an encouraging indicator. Root reflected on an unpredictable and turbulent summer, marked notably by Ben Stokes' decision to retire from international cricket midway through an ongoing contest against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, which England ultimately lost.

While Stokes had championed unselfish play four years prior, Root remained supportive and declined to publicly scrutinize the timing of the departure.

Mid-match retirement declarations proved to be an unexpected theme of the summer, as Heather Knight followed suit with her own departure during the women's Test held at Lord's a fortnight later. Despite the disruption, England now looks forward to entering a new chapter under Fleming's leadership following Stokes' exit.