Buttler likely to be retained as captain, new contendors for Head Coach revealed: report

The Telegraph reports that Buttler is likely to keep his role as captain to guide England through this transition

PHOTO: AFP

England is poised to overhaul its white-ball cricket setup after a disappointing run following the 2022 T20 World Cup. Despite a semi-final appearance in the 2024 T20 World Cup, the futures of captain Jos Buttler and head coach Matthew Mott were under review.

The Telegraph reports that Buttler is likely to keep his role as captain to guide England through this transition. However, Mott’s tenure as head coach is expected to end after just two years. ECB managing director Rob Key has overseen a review since the team’s early exit from the Caribbean, leading to the decision to part ways with Mott.

Under Mott, England enjoyed early successes, including a T20I series victory against Pakistan and the 2022 T20 World Cup win. However, the team’s fortunes declined significantly, with a failure to advance past the group stages in the 2023 ODI World Cup and disappointing defeats to Australia, South Africa, and India in the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Buttler is reportedly advocating for a new head coach with substantial international playing experience and a strong grasp of modern cricket. Candidates from the IPL, known for their expertise, are under consideration. However, it remains to be seen if the new head coach will be permitted to juggle roles in both the IPL and international cricket amid potential conflict of interest concerns.

Kumar Sangakkara, currently the director of cricket with Rajasthan Royals, is considered a leading candidate. His longstanding working relationship with Buttler in the IPL strengthens his prospects. Michael Hussey, another contender, has previously served as a consultant for England and is now managing the Welsh Fire in The Hundred.

Additionally, former England players Andrew Flintoff and Jonathan Trott are in the mix. Flintoff, who has unofficially supported England’s backroom staff, recently secured a coaching role with the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. Trott, who has achieved success with Afghanistan, led the team to the 2024 T20 World Cup semi-final.

The ECB is expected to announce Mott’s successor ahead of England’s next international white-ball assignment, a home series against Australia in September.