England‘s search for a new Test head coach has gathered pace following the dismissal of Brendon McCullum from the role. The former New Zealand captain was removed after England’s disappointing Test series defeat against Black Caps and a prolonged period of inconsistent performances in the longest format. However, McCullum continues to oversee England’s white-ball teams. With several high-profile names being linked to the vacant position, former England wicketkeeper Matt Prior has weighed into the debate by revealing the man he believes is best suited to lead England’s Test revival.
Matt Prior names his preferred candidate for England’s next Test team coach
Prior took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his thoughts on who should replace McCullum, making it clear that former England batter Jonathan Trott would be his first choice if Andy Flower is unavailable. The former wicketkeeper admitted that Justin Langer would bring valuable intensity and a winning mentality but believes England should prioritize appointing one of their own.
“Now Flower isn’t available I’d have Trott. Really like the idea of Langer (he would certainly sort the mentality side of things) but would be nice to have one of our own coaching the England team. Trott knows how to win in Australia, India, & what it takes to be #1 in Test cricket,” Prior wrote on X.
Now Flower isnt available I’d have Trott. Really like the idea of Langer (he would certainly sort the mentality side of things) but would be nice to have one of our own coaching the England team. Trott knows how to win in Australia, India, & what it takes to be #1 in Test cricket
— Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) July 18, 2026
Trott’s credentials make him an attractive candidate. During his playing career, he was a key member of one of England’s most successful Test sides, helping the team reach the No. 1 ranking in the ICC Test standings. He also played major roles in memorable overseas victories, including England’s Ashes triumph in Australia and their historic Test series win in India.
Since retiring from international cricket, Trott has built a strong coaching résumé. He guided Afghanistan to impressive performances in global tournaments and has earned praise for his tactical approach and player management. Those experiences, coupled with his understanding of English cricket, have strengthened his case for one of the biggest coaching jobs in the game.
Prior’s endorsement adds another notable voice to the ongoing conversation as the England and Wales Cricket Board evaluates multiple candidates for the high-profile role.
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England face a defining phase in Test cricket
England’s Test setup is entering one of its most significant transition periods in recent years. The end of the much-discussed “Bazball” era has left the side searching for a fresh direction after a turbulent run of results. The uncertainty extends beyond the coaching position. Veteran all-rounder Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket, leaving England without a permanent Test captain as well. As a result, the team heads into a new cycle without its two most influential figures from the previous regime.
That makes the appointment of the next Test coach even more crucial. The incoming coach will not only be responsible for improving performances but also for helping shape a new leadership group and defining England’s long-term identity in red-ball cricket. Time is also becoming a major factor. England’s next assignment is a three-match Test series against Pakistan, beginning on August 19 at Headingley. The series is expected to provide the first real indication of how England intends to rebuild after sweeping changes behind the scenes.
Managing director Rob Key now faces the challenging task of finalising both the coaching appointment and the team’s leadership structure before that series begins. With the Ashes also looming on the horizon, every decision made over the coming weeks could have a lasting impact on the future of England’s Test team.
Also READ: Nasser Hussain names ideal candidate to replace Brendon McCullum as England Test coach
