England's skills consultant Tim Southee to leave Ashes 2025-26 mid-way for ILT20

England’s specialist skills consultant, Tim Southee, is expected to leave the squad midway Ashes 2025-26. The former New Zealand pacer, who joined England’s management team earlier this year, is set to play for the Sharjah Warriors in the International League T20 (ILT20). His exit will come after the first Test, with Andrew Flintoff to potentially step into the role.

The Ashes, beginning on November 21 in Perth, is going to be England’s biggest Test challenge. After a tough India series earlier in the year, Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum will be under immense pressure to turn results in their favour. Southee’s absence is expected to be a major setback, as he played a crucial part in helping England’s bowling group during the summer. 

Southee, after retiring from international cricket for New Zealand, the 36-year-old is still active in global franchise leagues. His contract with the ECB is on a day-rate basis, similar to James Anderson’s short stint as bowling coach before him. This contract allows the former's flexibility, but also means England is vulnerable to losing him when franchise tournaments overlap. Meanwhile, the ILT20 begins on December 4, directly clashing with the Ashes schedule, which leads to Southee being available for the first Test before heading to the UAE. 

"It's probably come a little bit quicker than I would've expected… It's a game I love and a game that has given me so much. If I'm able to give back and help other people enjoy the game as much as I did, then hopefully there's that opportunity there," Southee told ESPNcricinfo.

Andrew Flintoff seen as replacement

However, the Three Lions will be happy to have Andrew Flintoff as the leading candidate to replace Southee. The former all-rounder has already worked with the England Lions and currently coaches Northern Superchargers in The Hundred. He will also be in Australia during the Ashes as part of the Lions’ tour.

Another name under consideration is James Anderson, who stepped into the role shortly after his international retirement in 2024. While Anderson has focused on Lancashire and The Hundred, his presence makes him a valuable option. According to reports, the ECB could consider other high-profile candidates like Shane Bond or David Saker.