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England National Cricket Team’s new Test head coach Stephen Fleming has revealed how he plans to work with captain Joe Root as he begins a new chapter with the team. Stephen Fleming wants Root to remain the main decision-maker on the field, but he will help the captain improve through honest feedback and constructive criticism behind the scenes.
Fleming also believes that there is still plenty of room for Root and England’s young leadership group to grow. The New Zealander has also praised the work done by his predecessor Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, but he made it clear that his own approach will be more measured. Amid this, Joe Root picks Sachin Tendulkar over Virat Kohli after incredible legend battle.
Stephen Fleming gives Joe Root full control as England captain ahead of new Test era
Stephen Fleming has made it clear that Joe Root will be in charge when England take the field. The head coach said that his job will be to support the captain and give him whatever help he needs, including constructive criticism when required.
Stephen Fleming said on Sky Sports: "He's in charge. Yeah. And I think, again, that's the beauty of our game. If he's going to go out there and make key decisions, then he is in charge. But my role is very closely linked to provide him what he needs. And that can be criticism and constructive work through. So, it's not just a yes position."
The new coach believes Root still has more to learn as a captain, despite his huge experience in international cricket. Fleming also called Root the right person to guide England as the team continues to develop and find its identity after recent struggles in Tests.
He added, "I want him to be the best he can be. And I think as Captain, there's still room to grow with this group. I don't necessarily know what that looks like, but I know there's growth. And that's the exciting thing as the group starts to emerge and find itself a bit more. But Joe's the perfect guy for that."
Stephen Fleming outlines how he wants to work with Joe Root as captain 🏴 pic.twitter.com/18r9MgZ4eD
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) September 20, 2026
Stephen Fleming opens up on Brendon McCullum’s emotional England exit
Fleming has a close relationship with Brendon McCullum, having been his former New Zealand teammate, friend and business partner. He has now replaced McCullum as England’s Test coach. Amid this, Stephen Fleming rules out Ben Stokes’ Ashes return.
The former New Zealand captain revealed that McCullum was disappointed that his England Test coach job ended after the team’s Ashes defeat and his eventual sacking. Fleming said that his former teammate remained positive about the experience.
On his relationship with McCullum, Fleming said, "He was heart-sore; it had worked out that way, but he was incredibly positive about the experience and opportunity. He's been unwavering on that. His belief about where these teams can go is strong, and that was a major part when I was talking to him about doing the role."
"I love his confidence and aggressive nature. I'm more measured. Somewhere in between we've got a beautiful working relationship with a huge amount of respect."
Stephen Fleming hails Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum era, reveals his plan to change England
Fleming also praised McCullum and Ben Stokes for changing England’s approach to Test cricket. The coach said, "I have so much respect for what Ben Stokes and Brendon did for this English side. They changed the landscape of cricket, and that's a really powerful thing."
"In the last 12 months, the evolution – teams caught up, there was talent lost, and there were a lot of reasons. That's now my opportunity. All I can think about is now my opportunity to pick it up and maybe add my style, which is looking at personality, a little bit more measured."
🗣️ "We've got a beautiful working relationship with a huge amount of respect"
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) September 20, 2026
England Test coach Stephen Fleming on his predecessor and close friend Brendon McCullum 🤝 pic.twitter.com/92kSHXyoke
