England's Test cricket summer has been marked by considerable upheaval, culminating in Joe Root's full-time captaincy and the appointment of Stephen Fleming as the new head coach. Fleming is currently working with the team remotely, 11,000 miles away.
The turbulent period included the retirement of the previous talismanic captain mid-Test and the subsequent sacking of the head coach. Adding to the season's events, centrally-contracted player Brydon Carse was seen in police handcuffs outside a Derby bar, though he was later released without charge.
Despite the challenges, including a disciplinary issue for the former captain and a team curfew that has since been lifted, there is a sense that the team is beginning to find its footing. England secured a quick innings victory over Pakistan in the first Test, which reportedly brought smiles back to faces.
The team's selection also appears healthier, with welcome competition for places beyond Root and Harry Brook. Jordan Cox impressed with a controlled 73 from first-drop, and the four-pronged pace attack is generating quiet excitement in home conditions, particularly with the re-emergence of Ollie Robinson.