Tim Southee, England’s specialist skills consultant, is anticipated to depart the team in the middle of the 2025–2026 Ashes. The Sharjah Warriors will compete in the International League T20 (ILT20) alongside the former New Zealand pacer, who joined England’s management staff earlier this year. Following the first Test, he will stand down, and Andrew Flintoff may take over.
The biggest Test challenge for England will be the Ashes, which kicks out in Perth on November 21. Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum will be under tremendous pressure to turn things around after a difficult India series earlier in the year. Southee was instrumental in supporting England’s bowling squad during the summer, so his absence is anticipated to be a significant blow.
The 36-year-old Southee is still playing in foreign franchise competitions despite having retired from New Zealand’s national cricket team. Like James Anderson’s brief tenure as bowling coach before him, he has a day-rate contract with the ECB. Although the former’s contract gives him freedom, England runs the risk of losing him if franchise competitions conflict. Southee is eligible for the first Test before leaving for the UAE because the ILT20 starts on December 4 and immediately conflicts with the Ashes schedule.
“It’s probably come a little bit quicker than I would’ve expected… It’s a game I love and a game that has given me so much. If I’m able to give back and help other people enjoy the game as much as I did, then hopefully there’s that opportunity there,” Southee told ESPNcricinfo.
Andrew Flintoff emerges as possible replacement for Tim Southee
Andrew Flintoff, the front-runner to succeed Southee, will be welcomed by the Three Lions. Currently coaching Northern Superchargers in The Hundred, the former all-rounder has previously worked with the England Lions. As part of the Lions’ tour, he will also be in Australia during the Ashes.
James Anderson, who assumed the position soon after his international retirement in 2024, is another name being considered. Although Anderson has concentrated on The Hundred and Lancashire, his presence makes him a useful choice. The ECB is reportedly considering other well-known applicants, such as David Saker or Shane Bond.
