The England cricket team may be considering significant changes in their coaching staff, possibly leading to an IPL reunion. Reports suggest that current white-ball head coach Matthew Mott is set to leave next week, prompting England to seek a high-profile replacement. Despite their underwhelming performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and not making the finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup, England is reportedly planning to retain Jos Buttler as captain. However, there is speculation that Kumar Sangakkara, Buttler's coach at Rajasthan Royals, could be a candidate for the head coach position.
Sangakkara is considered a strong contender for replacing Mott. Sangakkara, who has served as the Director of Cricket for the Rajasthan Royals since January 2021, has overseen the team's journey to the IPL final during his tenure. Under his guidance, Buttler has become a key player, suggesting a potential continuation of their successful partnership within the England team.
In addition to Sangakkara, other potential candidates include former Australian batsman Michael Hussey and Jonathan Trott, the current head coach of Afghanistan and a former England batsman. Trott has led Afghanistan to impressive achievements, including a sixth-place finish in the 2023 ODI World Cup and reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, Hussey is already familiar with the England setup, having served as their batting coach from 2022 to 2023.
The report also mentions that former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff is unlikely to be considered for the head coach position.
Under Brendon McCullum's coaching, England has found success and established a bold identity in Test cricket. With a new coaching appointment, England aims to regain its dominance in white-ball formats.