England head coach Stephen Fleming set for new role in India vs New Zealand Series

Stephen Fleming has officially begun his new role as England's Test coach after ending his long association with Chennai Super Kings, with the former New Zealand captain now preparing for his first international coaching assignment.

Fleming replaced fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum as England's red-ball coach. His appointment comes shortly after CSK, and Fleming ended their association following 17 seasons, bringing one of the longest and most successful coach-franchise partnerships in IPL history to an end.

Fleming joined CSK as a player in the inaugural IPL season in 2008 before taking over as head coach in 2009. During his tenure, CSK won five IPL titles and two Champions League T20 trophies, while Fleming became the most decorated coach in the IPL.

CSK eventually parted ways with Fleming after the franchise failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs for a third consecutive season. The franchise is now searching for his successor, with former India batter Hemang Badani emerging as one of the leading candidates, according to The Indian Express.

Fleming's move to England represents a major change, as this will be his first head coaching role with an international team. England have also restored Joe Root as their Test captain, giving Fleming the task of working with one of the most experienced batters in the format.

Fleming is currently in England for discussions with Root and ECB managing director of men's cricket Rob Key. He had requested a delayed start to his role to spend time with his family and was not involved on the ground during England's recent Test series against Pakistan, where Marcus Trescothick served as interim coach. However, he remained in contact with the England setup and provided input on selection, according to The Indian Express.

Fleming to commentate in IND vs NZ Series

Interestingly, Fleming will return to New Zealand before his first full Test assignment with England. He is set to work as a commentator for Sky New Zealand during India's upcoming tour of New Zealand, which begins with five T20Is on October 22 before moving into five ODIs and two Tests. The arrangement has been approved by the ECB.

Fleming's first full assignment as England Test coach will be the three-Test tour of South Africa in December and January. South Africa are the reigning World Test Championship holders.

Fleming had previously spoken about his appointment after England confirmed the move.

"I'm incredibly excited to be joining England as Test Coach. It's one of the most prestigious coaching positions in world cricket and I am honoured to be appointed. I am looking forward to working with the players and bedding in the gains made by Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes," he said to ICC.

The former CSK coach now begins a completely different challenge, with England hoping Fleming can bring the experience and consistency that made him one of the most successful coaches in franchise cricket.