Champions Trophy 2025: Jos Buttler Resigns as England White-Ball Captain a Day Before Dead Rubber Against South Africa

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Jos Buttler has stepped down as England's white-ball captain following the team's early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The 34-year-old wicketkeeper-batter will lead England for the last time in their final group-stage fixture against South Africa on Saturday, which has now become a dead rubber.

England's campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 ended in disappointment after suffering defeats against Australia and Afghanistan, which ensured their elimination before the knockout stages.

This continued a poor run of form in one-day internationals, with the team losing 15 of their last 21 matches. Buttler admitted that stepping aside was the best decision for both himself and the team.

Jos Buttler took charge as England's white-ball skipper in June 2022 after Eoin Morgan's retirement. His leadership began on a high note, guiding England to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup title in Australia later that year. However, England struggled to replicate that success in subsequent tournaments.

Their 50-over World Cup title defense in 2023 ended in disappointment, with England finishing near the bottom of the standings. They faced a similar fate in the 2024 T20 World Cup in the Caribbean, failing to make an impact in the latter stages of the tournament. These setbacks put increasing scrutiny on Buttler's captaincy, which ultimately led to his decision to step down.

In ODIs, Buttler led England in 44 matches, securing 18 wins, 25 losses, and one no result. His record in T20s was comparatively better, with 26 wins, 22 defeats, and three no results in 51 matches. Despite his struggles as captain, Buttler remains one of England's most experienced and explosive limited-overs players.

What's Next for England?

With Jos Buttler stepping down, England will now look for a new white-ball captain to take the team forward. Possible candidates include vice-captain Moeen Ali, all-rounder Sam Curran, and young batting sensation Harry Brook. England's next major limited-overs assignment will be a home series later this year, providing an opportunity for a fresh start under new leadership.

As Buttler prepares to lead England one last time against South Africa, all eyes will be on the team's performance in their final match of the Champions Trophy 2025. While the result won't affect their fate in the tournament, it will mark the end of an era for England's white-ball cricket.