ECB director Rob Key has revealed why Joe Root was appointed interim Test captain over Harry Brook following Ben Stokes' suspension for England's second Test match against New Zealand.

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were ruled out for the second Test following disciplinary action after a nightclub incident after England won their opening match at Lord's. Their absence created an unexpected void at the helm for the second fixture at The Oval.

Many expected Brook to be the man to step into the role, he has taken Stokes' role as Test vice-captain and is also captain of England's white ball team but it was decided by the ECB to go with the former captain.

Rob Key discussed England's decision to appoint the former captain interim captain and revealed why Brook was not selected:

"There was a number of different criteria for selecting an interim captain and Brook's work load at the moment played a big part in this. That young man is already captaining England's white ball team along with one of England's most important Test batsmen in the country."

Key further told the BBC:

"I just don't feel that it is the right time. That's the decision we came to. The Test captaincy is a massive job, even on an interim basis, especially going into this next Test match and everything Harry would have to deal with - plus the fact Harry, at the moment, is getting his head around white-ball cricket as well as being one of the best Test batters in the world."

It is also reported that past disciplinary issues faced by Brook were part of the discussions during this decision.

Brook has been appointed vice-captain under Root for the second test.

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The former revealing that Brook was completely accepting of the decision, and was completely willing to do whatever he could for England.

"We've spoken to Brook, and he was absolutely fine. All he wants to do is play cricket for England and do the best he possibly can. He doesn't really care about much else and he will be doing whatever he thinks is best for the team. He has no issue whatsoever with not being captain."

He also stated the obvious link between Root and Brook, on and off the field;

"He'll still be Joe's vice-captain. That partnership as batters, on and off the field, has been brilliant, and Joe has been a massive help to Harry at moving his game forward. I'd imagine he'll help him in this role as well, and vice-versa."

While Brook was considered for the role, England opted for Root's experience and the "safer" bet in such troubled times. Key highlighted the former captains excellent leadership qualities, and willingness to lead:

"It just didn't feel like that was the right time, for a number of different reasons, English cricket are very fortunate to have Joe Root. English cricket has been, and relied on, Joe Root not just as a batter. The fact is, you are looking at who could be the England Test captain, and not an easy job, and at this point in time, there are two candidates that could have done it, and we've gone with Joe Root."

Root will captain the side at the 2nd test at The Oval from the 17th June, as England hope to win their second test against New Zealand. Brook will remain his vice-captain.