Joe Root has decided against implementing a curfew for his players as he urges them to act like "grown adults" ahead of the upcoming Test series against Pakistan. This marks Root's return as captain, following a tumultuous period for the England Test team, which faced alcohol-related controversies since the 2025 Ashes.

In June, the team dealt with significant issues when then-captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were dropped from the second Test against New Zealand after breaching a curfew due to a nightclub incident. Stokes later retired from international cricket after the third Test.

While the ECB had previously introduced behavior guidelines including a midnight curfew, Root is taking a different stance. He stated:

"There's not going to be a curfew. I don't think this needs to be a big deal, to be honest."

Root emphasized that players should take responsibility for their actions off the field, explaining:

• "Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other."
• Players should know when to celebrate responsibly while understanding their obligations to the team.

Despite the recent controversies, Root did not dismiss the possibility of Stokes returning to the squad, saying:

"I don't know - let's get there first."

The captain also expressed disappointment over the departure of former head coach Brendon McCullum, who he felt had significantly impacted his development as a player. He now looks forward to working with new head coach Stephen Fleming, whom he admires greatly.

Root acknowledged past mistakes in his captaincy, particularly regarding the management of Jofra Archer, and is committed to improving this time around. He reflected on his growth as a player and leader, stating:

"I'm a completely different player from what I was four years ago."

The England vs Pakistan Test series is set to begin on August 19, with fixtures as follows:

• First Test: Headingley, August 19-23
• Second Test: Lord's, August 27-31
• Third Test: Edgbaston, September 9-13

Root aims to establish a positive team culture as they prepare to face Pakistan.