Paul Collingwood appointed England interim head coach for West Indies tour

Paul Collingwood has been appointed the interim head coach for England’s forthcoming three-Test tour of West Indies.

Collingwood, who took charge of England’s squad for their T20 series in the Caribbean last month, takes over on a temporary basis from Chris Silverwood, who was sacked last week following England’s dismal 4-0 defeat in the Ashes.

“I am genuinely excited to be leading the Test team for the tour of the Caribbean. I can’t wait to get started,” said Collingwood. “Having a challenging Test series against the West Indies straight off the back of the Ashes disappointment gives us a chance from now to reset and rebuild.

“Playing Test matches for England is the highest accolade in the game. My objective is to give players clarity, direction and encouragement for them to start building something special.”

The squad for the West Indies tour is set to be named on Tuesday, with England still reeling from their chastening experience in Australia. Silverwood, the batting coach Graham Thorpe and the England team director Ashley Giles have all departed in the aftermath, though Joe Root has remained as captain and Collingwood will provide some coaching continuity.

“I have spoken to Joe Root and Ben Stokes, and both are excited and passionate to take the team forward in this new cycle,” said Collingwood. “Although they know it won’t be easy, they have the desire and bravery to do things differently to ensure the team can prosper. We have an opportunity to get back on track.”