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Andrew Flintoff’s cricket coaching career reached a new milestone on Saturday when he was appointed to lead the England Lions A team.
The former England captain returned to cricket last year after a horrific car crash while filming for BBC TV show Top Gear in late 2022.
He was England’s assistant coach at this year’s T20 World Cup and oversaw the Northern Superchargers in the last edition of England’s domestic cricket competition The Hundred.
The 46-year-old former all-rounder is currently with the Test squad at the Oval for this week’s series finale against Sri Lanka, replacing batting coach Marcus Trescothick, and he has now agreed to take charge of the second-tier Lions for the next four series.
The Lions’ aim is to develop new talent for the senior team, with Flintoff signing up for tours of South Africa and Australia as well as home matches against India A and Zimbabwe.
“I am extremely excited to take on this role with the England Lions,” said Flintoff. “It is a fantastic opportunity to work with some of the best up-and-coming talent in the country and help shape the future of the men’s game.
“The Lions program has always been a vital stepping stone for players aspiring to international success, and I am honored to be a part of that journey.”
Flintoff, who recently presented a second series of BBC television’s Field of Dreams, where cricket is used to help disadvantaged youngsters, added: “The future of the game in England is very healthy. There is a wealth of talent emerging and I am looking forward to helping these players reach their full potential.
“It’s an exciting time for English cricket and I’m passionate about inspiring the next generation to take the game forward. We have a strong foundation and I believe we can create something truly special.”
Flintoff has been tipped as a future England head coach by director of cricket Rob Key, a former international team-mate.
Ed Barney, England and Wales Cricket Board Men’s Performance Director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Andrew Flintoff to this key role. Andrew has distinguished himself through his inspiring leadership, coaching expertise and deep understanding of the game.”
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