England confirms Stephen Fleming as new Test coach with Joe Root returning as captain

Fleming will lead team in South Africa series after leading white-ball sides alongside Harry Brook.

KSports

August 1, 2026 at 07:08 AM

Photo: The Guardian - Sport

England confirms Stephen Fleming as new Test coach with Joe Root returning as captain

New Zealander Stephen Fleming has been confirmed as the new coach of England's men’s Test team, succeeding Brendon McCullum. Meanwhile, Joe Root will return to full-time captaincy after stepping down in 2022.

Fleming replaces McCullum for a four-year term running until September 2030 and will take control from 'later this summer' for Tests against South Africa. Marcus Trescothick, an interim coach, will take charge for upcoming matches against Pakistan starting at Headingley.

Root captained England in 65 Test matches, winning 27 and losing 27, while Fleming led New Zealand in 80 Tests, recording 28 wins. Root also stands down from limited overs captaincy to allow Harry Brook to captain white-ball formats alongside McCullum.

Fleming’s background and new role

Fleming's coaching experience includes time as boss of Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.

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