Michael Atherton selects the top pick for the role of England’s white-ball coach

Aug 2, 2024

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Michael Atherton selects the top pick for the role of England’s white-ball coach

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Former England captain Michael Atherton has named as the ideal replacement for Matthew Mott as England‘s head white-ball coach.

ECB announces Matthew Mott’s departure

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) recently revealed that Mott has stepped down from his role following a series of underwhelming performances.

England’s disappointing campaigns in the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023, where they finished in seventh place, and the T20 World Cup 2024, where they lost in the semi-finals, led to Mott’s resignation. With the search for a new head coach now underway, Marcus Trescothick has been appointed as an interim coach while other candidates are considered.

Michael Atherton names the perfect candidate

Now Atherton shown his support towards former cricketing great Andy Flower for the coaching job. Flower, whose tenure with England saw them achieve significant milestones including their first T20 World Cup victory and a top Test ranking, is seen as a prime candidate to rejuvenate the team’s white-ball fortunes.

In his column for The Times, Atherton reflected on Flower’s notable achievements in franchise cricket, which he believes make Flower an excellent fit for the role.

“Flower transformed Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League; won the Abu Dhabi T10; took St Lucia to their first CPL final; and won the Hundred with Trent Rockets. These successes demonstrate Flower’s ability to adapt and excel in various competitive environments, skills that are crucial for the white-ball role,” Atherton wrote.

Also READ: Nasser Hussain explains why Brendon McCullum shouldn’t be England’s white-ball coach

Evolution since previous tenure

Despite previous criticisms of Flower’s intensity, Atherton suggested that Flower has likely evolved since his last stint with England.

“Flower has changed, too. He is said to have mellowed somewhat, possibly due to age or the evolving dynamics of player power. His extensive experience across different coaching roles has broadened his approach, making him potentially more adaptable and effective,” Atherton observed.

Managing workload

Flower’s current coaching role with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) could present a challenge in balancing both commitments. However, Atherton argues that managing both roles could be feasible.

“International jobs are less sought after than before, and Flower’s IPL commitment might be a sticking point. However, there is no international cricket during the IPL window, and Flower’s involvement in the IPL can keep him attuned to emerging trends and players, benefiting his role with England,” Atherton concluded.