Justin Langer 'open' to England head coach role as ex-Australia opener courts top job

Justin Langer is reportedly keen on becoming England 's new head coach, having left his role with Australia back in February.

England axed Chris Silverwood in the wake of their 4-0 defeat to Langer's Australia in the Ashes. Langer then promptly resigned as Australia coach after turning down a short-term extension, citing a lack of support from senior players, support staff and the board as the reason behind his decision.

Since stepping down, Langer has been widely tipped as an ideal replacement for Silverwood, with England's interim managing director Sir Andrew Strauss admitting he is among the names being considered for the vacancy. "I know him well," Strauss said. "On the surface, he's done a very good job of things with the Australian cricket team. So I wouldn't rule him out."

And according to a report from the Telegraph, Langer 'would be open to the possibility of coaching England' if approached. The report cites sources close to Langer as stating he is 'interested in talking to the ECB about the vacant role'.

England first need to appoint a permanent managing director, with Marcus North thought to be the current frontrunner. The ECB will then be responsible for hiring the new coach, with England wanting one in place ahead of the New Zealand series which begins in June.

Langer is not the only candidate for the job though and current interim coach Paul Collingwood has expressed his interest in taking the role permanently. "I've enjoyed it more than I thought," he said following the conclusion of England's tour of the West Indies.

"I was a bit anxious and nervous, I've had experiences before with the Covid fixtures but this felt different. A lot different. I haven’t got much experience as a head coach but you