Hussain backs Root’s curfew abolition but questions captaincy instincts

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has endorsed Joe Root’s decision to abolish the team curfew ahead of the three-Test series against Pakistan, describing the move as a mature and necessary step for a professional sporting outfit. Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, Hussain argued that rigid restrictions often breed resentment rather than discipline, suggesting that treating players as adults is more effective than imposing blanket bans.

Hussain, who appeared on the podcast alongside Michael Atherton, noted that curfews are typically a symptom of deeper institutional dysfunction. He stated that a professional side should not require such measures, and that any breaches of conduct should be handled through individual fines or exclusion from the squad rather than collective punishment. The decision to remove the curfew follows the suspension of Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson for breaking the rules introduced after the 4-1 Ashes defeat.

Despite welcoming the policy shift, Hussain expressed reservations regarding Root’s tactical acumen, citing the captain’s struggles during the recent series loss to New Zealand. He pointed to England’s second Test defeat at The Oval as evidence that Root sometimes lacks the intuitive feel for the game that characterised his predecessor, Stokes. Hussain observed that Root appeared to mimic Stokes’ aggressive field placements on a bouncy pitch, a decision he felt was ill-judged and indicative of a disconnect with the match tempo.

Hussain suggested that vice-captain Harry Brook might have been a preferred choice for the permanent Test leadership role, highlighting Brook’s strong game sense in white-ball cricket. While acknowledging the logistical constraints of the schedule and Brook’s previous off-field controversies, Hussain argued that Brook possesses an aura and intuitive understanding of the game that Root currently lacks. Brook was overlooked for the second Test against New Zealand, with Root returning to the helm for the remainder of the series.

Meanwhile, Michael Atherton reported that Root remains genuinely excited about the captaincy and intends to adapt elements of the previous 'Bazball' style rather than imposing a rigid, predetermined approach. Root, who captained England on a record 65 occasions, previously resigned in 2022 following a barren run in his final 17 Tests. Atherton noted that Root is cautious about discarding the legacy of former head coach Brendon McCullum, whom he credits for his development as a batter, while aiming to put his own stamp on the team’s performance.