Following England’s decisive victory over Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs in Leeds, Joe Root provided insight into the team's transition period regarding leadership. Root, who recently resumed his role as England’s Test captain, disclosed that Stephen Fleming has been actively communicating with him on a daily basis throughout the week.

Although Fleming is not scheduled to officially assume his duties as head coach until the conclusion of the Pakistan series, his early engagement with the captain suggests a proactive approach to the upcoming transition. Root expressed appreciation for this involvement, noting that Fleming is already showing a high level of commitment to the team's objectives. Root stated, “It’s been great to have [him] on the end of the phone,” and emphasized that Fleming is “very invested already in what we’re trying to achieve.”

This early collaboration comes at a time when England is experiencing significant success on the field. The team’s performance in the first Test, characterized by a substantial margin of victory, provides a strong foundation for the new coaching staff to build upon. While the official handover is still pending, the rapport between the incumbent captain and the incoming coach appears to be established, with both parties seemingly focused on maintaining the momentum generated during the current series.