Zak Crawley has been appointed as the new captain of Sunrisers Leeds for the upcoming season of The Hundred, marking a notable leadership change within the franchise. The team, previously known as the Northern Superchargers, announced the decision on June 14, 2026.

Crawley, who has struggled with form and was recently dropped from England’s national side, will take on the formal captaincy role despite widespread expectations that Harry Brook would be named leader. Brook, who has appeared prominently in promotional materials for the team’s new kit, was widely considered a frontrunner for the position.

The decision follows recent developments in England’s national cricket setup, where Joe Root was appointed captain on Wednesday after Ben Stokes faced suspension. Stokes received disciplinary action for a post-curfew incident during celebrations following England’s First Test victory over New Zealand. Meanwhile, Harry Brook serves as the Test vice-captain for England but was perceived by selectors as a less suitable choice for the Sunrisers’ captaincy after he was fined for a nightclub incident last winter.

The move to appoint Crawley as captain reflects the franchise’s preference for leadership perceived as more stable or reliable amid the off-field controversies affecting Brook. The decision has sparked discussion among fans and analysts, considering Brook’s rising profile and previous leadership roles at the international level.

Sunrisers Leeds will look to Crawley’s leadership to guide the team through The Hundred season, aiming to build cohesion and performance despite the recent upheaval in captaincy appointments both at the domestic franchise and national team levels.