Joe Root confirms Stuart Broad as vice-captain ahead of England's first Test of summer against New Zealand

Broad, who has previously led England’s Twenty20 side, assumes the position as Root’s deputy with Ben Stokes injured and Jos Buttler rested.

Root said: "Stuart has been a senior player for a long time. He speaks extremely well, he's got a very good cricket brain, and captaincy experience within the short format. He's the right man to take that in Ben and Jos' absence.

"He's at real peace with his game at the minute. He's an integral part as a senior player, and very much a leader within that bowling group. I'm really pleased for him, and it's a great opportunity for him to take that on.”

Gloucestershire wicketkeeper will make his England debut with Buttler and Jonny Bairstow injured, and after a freak dressing-room slip ruled out Ben Foakes. While Bracey is now certain of his place, Root was tight-lipped about who else will feature when the first Test begins on Wednesday.

"We can definitely confirm one - James Bracey will make his debut, which is very exciting," Root added. "He's worked extremely hard, and has been around the squad for a good while now. He's got a great work ethic.

"In terms of the rest of the squad, we haven't quite got that clarity. There are a few things we want to weigh up and be sure on, in terms of the balance of the side and how that exactly looks."