Former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming has been named as the new coach of the England men’s Test team, replacing old team-mate Brendon McCullum, who was recently removed following England’s horror performance in the Ashes and the home series against New Zealand. Meanwhile, Joe Root has been confirmed as the team’s Test captain. Fleming, having captained New Zealand in 80 Tests is vastly experienced and he recently ended his long association with IPL franchise CSK, where he served as head coach for 18 years.
“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,” Stephen Fleming said in a release by the ECB.
"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."
Joe Root, who has already led England in 65 Tests, expressed his excitement to lead the side once again.
“It is a great honour and privilege to be asked to be England Men’s Test captain again. The Test captaincy is a difficult but hugely rewarding job and, after enjoying a brief taste of it again working with [Brendon] McCullum last month, I am excited to lead this next generation of players forward,” Joe Root said.
"The opportunity to do that alongside Stephen is also a huge motivator. He has proved over a long period of time that he is an exceptional leader with a great knowledge of the game, and I am looking forward to working with him and helping to build a winning environment," Root said.