Stephen Fleming has been appointed as the England Test Coach days after his exit as the head coach of the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League. The New Zealander will replace Brendon McCullum, whereas Joe Root has returned at the helm of the England Test team after Ben Stokes’ retirement from international cricket. The development was confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which stated that the appointments came after a rigorous process.
For the unversed, former England Test coach McCullum was fired earlier this month following a series of poor performances and various off-field controversies. However, he continues to remain in charge of English white-ball teams. On the other hand, Root returns to lead the side after Stokes’ announced his sudden retirement from international cricket after major controversy. Root’s first stint as Test captain came between 2017 and 2022, where he led the side to a record 27 wins in 65 games.
One of the most prestigious coaching positions in world cricket: Stephen Fleming on Being Appointed as England Test Coach
Fleming, who played 111 Test matches and 280 ODI games for the Black Caps, was earlier sacked as the coach of Chennai Super Kings in the IPL following a few poor seasons. With this, both parties ended one of the longest associations in the global cricketing fraternity of over 18 years. The former New Zealand captain expressed his gratitude following his recent appointment and said it is one of the most prestigious coaching positions in world cricket.
“I’m incredibly excited to be joining England as Test Coach. It’s one of the most prestigious coaching positions in world cricket and I am honoured to be appointed,” he said.
Speaking about his future goals and aspirations, Fleming stated, "I am looking forward to working with the players and bedding in the gains made by Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes. Of course, the ambition is always to win now. But equally, it’s about ensuring the team is well placed for the medium and long-term future. There is a lot of young talent in and around the team and our aim is to help them fulfil their potential as world-class cricketers.”
Fleming is one of the most decorated coaches in global cricket. Under his guidance, the Super Kings won five IPL titles and made it to 10 finals.
