Fleming makes English coaching talent a priority

Stephen Fleming says developing English coaching talent will be a priority during his tenure leading England’s Test team, while arguing that the national side should ideally be coached by someone from England. The New Zealander is due to begin the role on the team’s three-Test tour of South Africa in December 2026. Fleming made the comments in an interview with BBC Radio 5 Live. He said he believes a national team should primarily be coached by a representative of that country, and described the development of English coaches as a real focus. He also said he was grateful for the opportunity to lead England. He intends to bring county coaches and former England players into the national setup when opportunities arise, saying the approach would draw on experience across the English game. Several former England players are already among his staff, including Marcus Trescothick, James Foster and Richard Dawson. Fleming was appointed in July to replace fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum as Test coach. McCullum remains in charge of England’s limited-overs teams. Fleming’s first assignment is the South Africa tour, which is scheduled to begin in December and consists of three...