Former England captain Nasser Hussain has backed Andy Flower as a potential candidate for the England White-ball coach position after Matthew Mott Stepped down from the role.
The former Zimbabwean batter had various success as a coach in recent years and Hussain feels that his experience and expertise make him an ideal fit for the role. Hussain acknowledged that there might be some resistance to appointing Flower as he already had experience working as England’s coach.
“Some would view (Flower) as a backward step – ‘never go back, you are going back to a former England coach’ – but I think Andy has moved on. Andy was very anti-franchise and IPL, but that was a very long time ago. Now he has traveled the world, winning for most franchises and doing some really good things,” said Hussain.
Andy’s experience as a coach has an impressive array of achievements. He has led various teams to success, displaying his ability to adapt to different playing conditions and cultural environments. His experience in the T20 format after enjoying franchise cricket, aligns well with the demands of modern white-ball cricket.
“He is a brilliant coach. You just have to look at his CV and, if Rob Key got Andy Flower’s CV out, there is hardly a better option than that, but again it is if Andy wants to do it. I just look at the best person for the job, simple as that. I’ve worked with Kumar and (he has a) brilliant brain. I’ve played and seen Andy Flower, brilliant player-coach, brilliant man,” he added.
Hussain admitted that he was satisfied by Flower’s credentials, he also highlighted the importance of finding a coach who is genuinely interested in the role. The England and Wales Cricket Board has faced challenges in attracting high-profile coaches in the past and ensuring the right candidate is not only qualified but also motivated is crucial.
“They are all very good candidates and I repeat the job is not so much finding the candidate, it is finding the candidate that actually wants to do the job,” the Former English captain stated.
With ECB continuing the search for a white-ball head coach, Andy Flower’s name is likely to be high on the shortlist. His proven track record and ability to adapt to modern cricket make him a compelling candidate.
The final decision will ultimately depend on Flower whether he is interested in returning to international cricket and whether the ECB believes is the best person to lead the England White-ball team to future success.
