Joe Root has officially lifted the midnight curfew for the England Test team, challenging his players to demonstrate maturity following a series of high-profile late-night incidents. The 35-year-old captain, who is preparing to lead the side against Pakistan next week, expressed his belief that restrictive curfews are ineffective in fostering professional standards.
The curfew was originally implemented across England’s men’s squads following a disappointing winter Ashes campaign, during which off-field conduct frequently overshadowed on-field performance. Notable controversies included an altercation involving Harry Brook and a nightclub bouncer in Wellington, which nearly cost the batter his position as white-ball captain. Additionally, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson faced suspensions during the summer series against New Zealand for violating the curfew after celebrating an opening victory.
Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast, Root confirmed that the policy has been abandoned for the Test side, with reports suggesting the change also extends to Brendon McCullum and Brook’s white-ball teams. “I don’t think they work,” Root said regarding the previous restrictions. He emphasized that for players to accept responsibility during matches, they must be treated as adults capable of making sound decisions in their personal time.
Under the new approach, the responsibility for maintaining standards will fall on the players and the leadership group, including new red-ball head coach Stephen Fleming. Root noted that the team needs to “self-police” and manage their downtime effectively. He stressed that players understand the requirements of representing England and should be recognized for their performance on the pitch rather than headlines about their nightlife.
Root encouraged his squad to enjoy their successes sensibly, stating that celebrating a Test victory with a beer is acceptable when done at the right time. “Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other, create a good, strong culture,” he added. The captain’s focus remains on the upcoming three-match series against Pakistan, as he looks to establish a new era for the team built on professional accountability rather than rigid oversight. The report also notes that arguing: “I don’t think they work.” It is understood that the relaxing of rules also applies to Brendon McCullum’s and Brook’s white, the 35-year-old told the Sky Sports Cricket podcast that the curfew has been abolished. The report also notes that “There’s not going to be a curfew,” Root said. The report also notes that prompting the return of Root as Test captain, stokes returned for the series closer before announcing his retirement from international cricket.
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