Former England captain Ben Stokes says he would "love" to coach the national team once his playing career is over.
Speaking on the For the Love of Cricket podcast, the 35-year-old revealed he is completing his Level Three coaching qualification to prepare for life after retirement.
"I know what I want to do when I'm finished playing, which is to be a coach," Stokes said. "Would I love to coach England one day? Absolutely."
Stokes, who retired from international cricket in June after leading England's Test side since 2022, also admitted he was surprised Harry Brook was overlooked as his successor.
Brook, England's Test vice-captain and current white-ball skipper, had been backed by Stokes for the role, but selectors instead handed the captaincy back to Joe Root.
"I thought if you believe someone is the right leader, then just give them the job," Stokes said. "He's vice-captain, the captain wasn't playing, and he still wasn't captain. I didn't understand that."
Despite his surprise, Stokes backed Root to succeed under new Test coach Stephen Fleming but admitted he is concerned about the demands of the role after seeing the toll Root's first spell as captain took on him.
"I wish Joe nothing but success," Stokes said. "My only concern is for him because I know what he went through the last time. I don't want to see that happen again."
Stokes also dismissed suggestions of a fallout with former England Test coach Brendon McCullum, insisting the pair remained close despite occasionally disagreeing.
"We never once fell out," he said. "We had different opinions at times, but we're still mates."
