In a series of expected events, England are set to kick off their search for a new Test head coach after the departure of Brendon McCullum, with reports claiming the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has shortlisted nine candidates for the role. McCullum's tenure came to an end after England's 2-1 home Test series defeat to New Zealand, a series which also brought the end of Ben Stokes' international career.
Stephen Fleming to take over the England Test coach role?
According to a report by Daily Mail, Stephen Fleming, who recently parted ways Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after a long association of 18 years, has been among the shortlisted candidates. If Fleming gets the England Test coaching role, it will be his first role in International cricket.
Notably, Fleming is considered to be the leading choice among all the candidates, having guided CSK to five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 championships during his supreme tenure.
However, the list also features several experienced coaches, consisting of Andy Flower, who has won two IPL trophies with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Pakistan white-ball coach Mike Hesson, Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara, Lucknow Super Giants coach Justin Langer and the franchise's team director Tom Moody.
Why does Andy Flower stands out?
The list of possible successors to Brendon McCullum also includes former England Batter Jonathan Trott, Richard Dawson and former Ireland coach Adi Birrell. Despite earlier claims of Rahul Dravid being the frontrunner, the former India head coach is not being considered for the role. Because of Flower's earlier experience with England, having guided the side to the World T20 title in 2010 he can be a perfect choice for the Three Lions.