England Test coach Stephen Fleming says his primary aim is to beat Australia, stressing an obsession with the Ashes and a focus on standards ahead of the South Africa tour.
New England Test coach Stephen Fleming told BBC Sport that he shares England’s “obsession” with the Ashes and arrives with the explicit goal to “beat the Aussies”. He made the comments in his first media interview since being appointed in July, ahead of England’s Test series in South Africa in December and the next Ashes series in England next summer.
Fleming, a former New Zealand captain who never defeated Australia in the 14 Tests he played against them, succeeded Brendon McCullum, who was sacked as Test coach earlier this summer. England won only two of McCullum’s final ten Tests, including a heavy loss in Australia. Fleming said a Test side should adapt to conditions and situations, and while he does not seek a distinct “brand”, he wants a disciplined structure with room for flair.
Addressing off‑field issues, Fleming noted “standards” for player behaviour, referencing the recent police‑closed investigation into pace bowler Brydon Carse and the ongoing Cricket Regulator inquiry. He also expressed respect for Ben Stokes’ decision to retire from international cricket, saying he would not try to persuade the former captain back into the England set‑up.
The source does not provide evidence on how Fleming’s stated aims will translate into results; England’s performance in the upcoming South Africa tour and future Ashes series remains uncertain.