Andy Flower Rules Himself Out Of England Top Job
Zimbabwe cricket great Andy Flower has ruled himself out of becoming England’s next Test coach, ending speculation that he could return to a role in which he previously enjoyed remarkable success.
The Zimbabwean confirmed he has informed the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) that he is not interested in the position, saying he is happy with his current coaching commitments.
Andy Flower Explains Why He Rejected England Test Coach Role
According to The Guardian, Flower held several discussions with ECB officials, including managing director of men’s cricket Rob Key, before deciding against taking the job.
Introducing his decision, Flower said:
“The bottom line for me is that I’m very happy in the work that I am doing at the moment. I work for a couple of really good organisations. I’ve got really good teams around me, and I’m really comfortable with what I’m doing.”
The former England coach, who guided the side to the world No. 1 Test ranking and three Ashes series victories between 2009 and 2014, said he fondly remembers his time with England but believes the timing is not right for a return.
“I’ve worked with England before, I had an amazing time when I had the privilege to represent England as one of their leaders, and I remember those years really fondly. It would be a privilege for me or anyone else to be the Test coach. But for me at this time, I’m really comfortable with what I’m doing and I’m going to stick with that.”
Justin Langer Emerges As Leading Candidate
The Guardian reports that former Australia coach Justin Langer has now moved to the top of the ECB’s shortlist following Flower’s decision. Langer currently coaches Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League and Manchester Super Giants in The Hundred.
Flower explained that balancing franchise cricket with England’s Test coaching role would not have been practical.
“For me personally, I don’t think I could have done both. Especially with the IPL being held during the first couple of months of the English summer. If I was England’s Test coach I’d like to be here, watching and interacting with the people I need to watch and interact with.”
Former England batter Jonny Bairstow also praised Flower’s decision-making, saying:
“He’s someone I’ve got the utmost respect for… If he’s ruled himself out that’s a big loss for English cricket.”
England are searching for a new Test coach after Brendon McCullum’s departure, with the ECB expected to continue its recruitment process in the coming weeks.
The post Andy Flower Rejects England Test Coach Job And Reveals Why appeared first on iHarare News.
