Andrew Flintoff appointed head coach of England Lions, to oversee series against India A at home

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Andrew Flintoff on Saturday (September 8) was named as the head coach of the England Men’s Lions programme for the upcoming year. The former England all-rounder will take the role in October.

The official released by England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) revealed that Flintoff pipped several high-calibre applicants, and emerged as the standout candidate for the role which will see him oversee several crucial series of the England Lions.

“I'm incredibly excited to take on this role with the England Lions. It's a fantastic opportunity to work with some of the best up-and-coming talent in the country and to help shape the future of the men's game," Flintoff said.

Flintoff has signed up for the winter tours of South Africa and Australia as well as summer fixtures against India A and Zimbabwe. Since returning to cricket over the past year, the 46-year-old was also England's assistant coach at the T20 World Cup 2024.

He led the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. He is currently standing in for batting coach Marcus Trescothick for England for the ongoing third Test against Sri Lanka.

Flintoff, who was an all-rounder, played 79 Tests for England and was the 2005 Ashes player of the series. In December 2022, Flintoff sustained facial injuries from an accident that occurred during filming for 'Top Gear' at the show's test track in Surrey.

“Andrew stood out thanks to his inspirational leadership, coaching expertise, and deep understanding of the game,” said Ed Barney, the ECB men's performance director.

“With Andrew's guidance, the highest potential players will continue to develop, thrive and take their game to new levels," Barney said. "I'm confident his influence will resonate across English cricket, helping drive the game forward.”

After retiring from the sport Flintoff featured in popular TV shows like 'Top Gear' and 'A League of Their Own.' He also had a short-lived attempt at boxing.