Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach following McCullum's sacking earlier this month.
Stephen Fleming, the 53-year-old former New Zealand captain, is poised to become England's next Test coach, according to reporting by the Telegraph. The appointment would follow Brendon McCullum's recent removal from the position, though McCullum will remain in charge of England's white-ball teams. Former England coach Andy Flower has ruled himself out of consideration for the role.
McCullum's tenure as Test coach ended following a series of disappointing results and off-field incidents. While his first year showed promise with 10 wins from 12 matches, England's performance deteriorated significantly afterward, winning 17 and losing 18 of their subsequent 37 Tests. The team has struggled to maintain momentum, failing to secure a multi-match series victory since December 2024. Recent setbacks include a 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia and a 2-1 home series loss to New Zealand, during which captain Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket.
Unlike many other candidates for the position, Fleming brings no prior experience as a national team head coach. However, he has established a distinguished record in franchise cricket, most notably spending 17 years with Indian Premier League side Chennai Super Kings, where he secured five titles from nine finals. He has also coached in the Hundred, Major League Cricket, and SA20 competitions. Fleming's Test credentials are strong, having represented New Zealand in 111 matches and captaining the side to 28 wins from 80 matches.
The timing of Fleming's appointment remains uncertain, with potential gaps in England's coaching structure ahead of the Pakistan Test series beginning on 19 August. Assistant coach Marcus Trescothick and former captain Joe Root could assume interim responsibilities. Additionally, Fleming would have input into selecting England's new Test captain following Stokes' retirement, a role for which Harry Brook, the current white-ball captain and vice-captain, has received backing despite earlier being overlooked.
