Justin Langer has confirmed that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has not contacted him about becoming England's next Test head coach. The former Australia coach had been linked with the role following Brendon McCullum's recent departure from the red-ball setup.
England managing director Rob Key has spoken with several coaching candidates in recent weeks, but Langer is not among them. The England and Wales Cricket Board is searching for a new Test coach and captain before the home series against Pakistan begins on August 19.
It's All Paper Talk, It's All Rumours - Justin Langer on England Test Role
Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Justin Langer was asked about England's vacant Test head coach position. The former Australia coach dismissed the reports, saying the England and Wales Cricket Board has not contacted him about the role despite recent media speculation.
"No, I haven't, no. No, I haven't heard from anyone. You read all this [speculation]... It's all paper talk, it's all rumours."
Andy Flower has ruled himself out of the race, and the ECB is considering candidates such as Stephen Fleming, Jonathan Trott, Richard Dawson, and Tom Moody. If the board cannot appoint a permanent coach before the Pakistan series, Marcus Trescothick is expected to serve as interim head coach.
Justin Langer Calls England Test Coach Role One of Cricket's Biggest Jobs
Justin Langer admitted coaching England is one of the most sought-after jobs in international cricket. He said that any coach would consider the opportunity, placing the England role alongside the Australian and Indian head coach positions.
"There's three coaching roles in the world as a coach [that anyone would consider]. The Australia head coach, the Indian head coach, and the England head coach. But it's all hypothetical, isn't it? When it comes to coaching, it's a career, and everyone looks at all opportunities, don't they?"
Langer is currently in the UK coaching Manchester Originals in The Hundred. Lucknow Super Giants finished at the bottom of the IPL standings this season. His Manchester side has made a solid start, winning two of its first three matches.
Justin Langer Says England's Next Test Coach Must Work Closely with Brendon McCullum
Justin Langer said the successful candidate must work closely with white-ball coach Brendon McCullum and provide clear leadership from the start.
"I've got no idea. They're going to have to work really well with Baz, and they've got to be really clear in their vision. Great leaders, you've got to be really clear in your vision, what you stand for, and then you go forward from there."
England are aiming to appoint a permanent Test head coach before the opening Test against Pakistan. The ECB's biggest priorities are rebuilding the Test side and retaining the Ashes at home. England has not lost a series to Australia at home in 25 years.
The new coach will also take charge during a major transition. England need a new Test captain following Ben Stokes' retirement and must rebuild the squad ahead of next year's home Ashes series.
