Tim Southee brought his international career to a close in December, finishing as New Zealand cricket’s leading wicket-taker across all formats.
England are evaluating former New Zealand international Tim Southee as a potential fast-bowling consultant for the upcoming home season.
James Anderson, who had assumed the role after retiring from Test cricket last summer, will not be available this year due to his commitments as a player with Lancashire.
Southee, 36, stepped away from international cricket in December as New Zealand’s all-time top wicket-taker.
He shares a strong rapport with England head coach Brendon McCullum, who paid tribute to Southee on the field in Hamilton following his last outing for the Black Caps.
Should Southee be appointed, he would join McCullum and assistant coach Jeetan Patel as the third New Zealander on England’s staff.
Sources indicate that additional candidates have also been approached regarding the position.
The appointed consultant will be tasked with mentoring England’s pace attack during a pivotal year, which features a home Test series against India ahead of an Ashes tour in Australia.
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England’s summer schedule begins next month with a Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge. The squad announcement is expected by the end of this week.
Injuries sidelining Chris Woakes and Mark Wood have left England with a relatively inexperienced pace unit. Gus Atkinson, earning 11 Test caps to date, is set to lead the attack.
Sam Cook, 27, is on the verge of a debut after being rested from Essex’s Championship fixture against Somerset earlier this month at England’s behest.
Josh Tongue and Matthew Potts are also being considered, while Brydon Carse works his way back from a foot injury. Meanwhile, Jofra Archer, currently competing in the Indian Premier League, may return to red-ball action with the England Lions for their series against India A in June.
Prior to Anderson’s retirement, England had not designated a fast-bowling specialist among their coaches. Once his historic playing career concluded, Anderson became a regular presence in the England dressing room.
For this summer, Anderson has opted for a one-year playing contract with Lancashire, prioritising it over any coaching responsibilities for England.
Anderson, still recovering from a calf injury, has yet to feature this season and will miss Lancashire’s Championship game against Gloucestershire starting on Friday. He may return to England’s coaching staff ahead of the Ashes series.
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