Darren Lehmann rules out England Test coaching interest

BIRMINGHAM: Darren Lehmann has dismissed speculation linking him with England's Test coaching role after guiding Northamptonshire to a record-equalling third T20 Blast title at Edgbaston, suggesting the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has "already made the decision" on Brendon McCullum's successor.

Lehmann stepped down as Australia's head coach following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal and has not returned to international coaching since.

He joined Northamptonshire as head coach last year and earlier this season signed a contract extension until 2029, while also working as a broadcaster for ABC Radio in Australia during the English winter.

The ECB's search for a new Test head coach suffered a setback on Friday when Andy Flower, previously considered the leading candidate, ruled himself out of contention. Although Lehmann's name has been mentioned in speculation, he is not believed to be among the shortlisted candidates.

"I'm not sure my wife wants me to spend 300 days [a year] away again," Lehmann said when asked about the possibility of taking the role.

"I haven't spoken to them, so there's no point worrying about it. For me, if they've got rid of Brendon McCullum, they've already made the decision and got someone behind the scenes, because that's how it works."

Stephen Fleming, Justin Langer and Richard Dawson have since emerged as the leading contenders after Flower confirmed he would remain on the franchise circuit.

Fleming, who stepped down as Chennai Super Kings head coach last week, has also admitted he would "100% give it some consideration" if approached.

Northamptonshire secured the T20 Blast title on Saturday with disciplined defensive performances against Somerset and Hampshire, and Lehmann reserved special praise for captain David Willey, who led the side to glory at the age of 36.

"He's been world-class for us," Lehmann said. "He's led the team really well. I can't speak highly enough of Dave and what he's brought to the table as a leader.

"His attention to detail is second to none. The amount of phone calls I have from him – I ring him, or he rings me – is really quite weird half the time. It's refreshing to have a captain who is so driven to improve his players and is happy to make mistakes.

"He's one of the blokes I'd first pick in any side. I just love the way he goes about it. He's trying to get better; he's not standing still as a 36-year-old. That takes courage. That's something I'm really proud of him for."

Lehmann also ranked Northamptonshire's T20 Blast triumph among the finest achievements of his coaching career.

"I've been fortunate enough to work with some really good players and win some big trophies, but this is a big trophy, mainly because of what we've got," he said.

"We're a small club, with a small budget, but we play big."