New England Test coach Stephen Fleming will step into a commentary role in his native New Zealand this autumn, just ahead of his first series in charge of the Test team. Appointed as Brendon McCullum’s replacement earlier this summer, Fleming was not in charge during the previous series against Pakistan, where interim coach Marcus Trescothick and returning captain Joe Root led the team to a 3-0 triumph.

Fleming will officially take over for the away series in South Africa, which starts on 17 December. However, before that, he will commentate for Sky NZ during New Zealand’s five-game T20 series against India, scheduled from 22 October to 1 November. His commentary team includes notable figures such as former India head coach Ravi Shastri and former Black Caps stars like Ross Taylor, Tim Southee, Scott Styris, and Shane Bond.

After the T20s, New Zealand and India will face off in five ODIs and two Tests, but Fleming will not participate in media duties for those matches as he prepares for England’s games against the Proteas.

At 53 years old, Fleming brings a wealth of experience, having been New Zealand’s longest-serving Test captain and leading Chennai Super Kings to five IPL titles over 17 years. His recent appointment marks his first international coaching role. Upon confirmation, Fleming expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m incredibly excited to be joining England as Test coach. It’s one of the most prestigious coaching positions in world cricket and I am honoured to be appointed.”

Brendon McCullum, who lost his position after a disappointing Ashes campaign, praised Fleming’s appointment, saying, “The ECB has done incredibly well... Flem will be excellent. He’s a little bit like me, but better.” With a focus on both immediate success and long-term development, Fleming aims to help nurture the young talent within the England squad.