England cricket legend Andrew Flintoff was named Tuesday as head coach of the Sydney Thunder, the Huge Bash League staff mentioned, hailing it as their “most important off-field acquisition in membership historical past”.
The 48-year-old has signed a two-year deal for what shall be his first abroad teaching position, following weeks of hypothesis.
Former England captain Flintoff starred for his nation throughout all three codecs and was final yr linked with taking up from Brendon McCullum as England’s head coach.
The charismatic former all-rounder has minimize his tooth in teaching with the second-string England Lions, in addition to the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred.
In 2022 the favored Flintoff was left with extreme facial and rib accidents after a automotive crash whereas filming for the hit BBC tv program Prime Gear.
The Huge Bash League is Australia’s premier Twenty20 competitors.
“I am unable to wait to recover from there and get began,” he mentioned in a press release launched by the staff.
Sydney Thunder are proud to announce Andrew ‘Freddie’ Flintoff @flintoff11 as BBL Head Coach for till the tip of BBL|17 ⚡️
Full launch ➡️ https://t.co/gKig9dOOBy pic.twitter.com/WGkQ3LNRKo
— Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) June 2, 2026
“I am taking a look at this with a number of optimism. You have a look at the franchise, you have a look at the gamers, you have a look at the help, and I believe there’s one thing actually huge to construct on.”
The Thunder squad is led by former Australia opener David Warner and in addition contains Sam Konstas, the 20-year-old as soon as seen as Warner’s successor at Check degree.
They completed backside of the desk final trip, and Flintoff replaces Trevor Bayliss, who left the position in February after six seasons on the helm.
“I would like our gamers to attach with the individuals who come and see us. I would like them to take pleasure in taking part in cricket,” mentioned Flintoff, who had a stint within the BBL as a participant over a decade in the past.
“Nevertheless, all that’s underpinned by arduous work… I would like them to play with ardour and depart the whole lot on the market on the sphere.
“I am excited to return over, get entangled and coach this staff. I am right here to do one of the best job I presumably can for the staff and everyone that comes out and helps us,” he mentioned.
