Andrew Flintoff is being considered as a potential caretaker coach for England’s senior white-ball teams if Brendon McCullum needs time off before the Ashes, according to reports.
The England and Wales Cricket Board is aware that McCullum’s workload must be carefully managed, given the gruelling schedule ahead.
Flintoff could even be positioned to replace McCullum in the white-ball role when his contract expires after the 2027 World Cup, claims the Guardian.
The former England captain currently holds a one-year contract as coach of England Lions.
Andrew Flintoff is being considered as a potential caretaker coach for England’s senior white-ball teams if Brendon McCullum needs time off before the Ashes
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McCullum took over England’s limited-overs sides two months ago in a dual role that includes his Test coaching duties.
England face a packed schedule with 21 white-ball games and six Tests before the first Ashes Test begins in Perth on 21 November.
This includes a five-Test home series against India this summer.
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Brendon McCullum will be hoping to steer England to Ashes glory this year
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An additional six games in New Zealand in November have been added to England’s itinerary since McCullum’s appointment.
The situation is complicated by McCullum’s family remaining based in New Zealand.
Flintoff’s coaching journey began as an unpaid consultant during England’s 50-over series against New Zealand and Ireland before the 2023 World Cup, having previously recovered from a near-fatal accident while filming scenes for Top Gear.
He later joined the backroom staff in a paid role for the five-match T20 series in the West Indies in December 2023.
The 47-year-old served as an assistant coach at the T20 World Cup last year.
He also joined the red-ball squad for England’s final Test against Sri Lanka at the Oval, where he presented Josh Hull with his debut cap.
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McCullum will receive time off during the Hundred in August.
The three-match one-day international series in Ireland in September appears the most likely for him to miss as he prepares for the Ashes.
The New Zealand white-ball games in November may even double as Ashes preparation due to the short turnaround, with just seven days separating the two tours.
Andrew Flintoff has been back involved with England cricket since 2023
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Flintoff is currently in Abu Dhabi with the England Lions on a training camp, which includes his 16-year-old son Rocky.
England Test captain Ben Stokes has also been in Abu Dhabi continuing his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury.