Reports: Paul Collingwood likely to become England's interim head coach following Chris Silverwood's departure

In what can be called a major development, Paul Collingwood is expected to become England’s interim head coach following the departure of Chris Silverwood. Following England’s humiliating 0-4 defeat in the Ashes last month, Silverwood faced the axe and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) now has the onus to hire someone for the crucial role.

For the time being, Collingwood is expected to oversee the team’s performance. It must be noted that the former all-rounder has been a part of the team’s support staff since a while. Ever since the COVID-19 virus came in the picture, England, for several assignments, have had two bio-bubbles squads for Test and whie-ball matches. While Silverwood was taking care of the Test team, Collingwood, the designated assistant coach, was mentoring the white-ball squads.

Collingwood even overlooked the team’s performance in the recently-concluded T20I series against West Indies. Hence, Andrew Strauss, England team’s interim managing director, has trusted his former teammate to continue at the position for the time being. Meanwhile, this major report was carried out by dailymail.co.uk.

Paul Collingwood’s upgrade would avoid a complete change of coaching staff

Meanwhile, Collingwood’s promotion from assistant coach would avoid a complete change of the current coaching staff. It would also give Strauss some breathing space to focus on identifying and form a potent support staff for the home international season, starting in June. Collingwood’s first assignment in the new role would be the three-match Test series in West Indies next month.

Meanwhile, Silverwood, after his departure had thanked ECB for giving him the position at the helm. At the same time, he also stated that the last couple of years were pretty demanding.

“It’s been an absolute honour to be England Head Coach, and I’m extremely proud to have worked alongside our players and staff. I want to thank them all for the hard work and commitment they have given during my time in the role and I wish them all the very best moving forward,” said Silverwood as quoted by ESPNCricinfo.

“The last two years have been very demanding but I have really enjoyed my time with the team and working with Rooty (Joe Root) and Morgs (Eoin Morgan), and I am very proud of this group considering the challenges. I leave with fond memories and I am now looking forward to spending some quality time at home with my family and embracing the next chapter,” he added.