Stephen Fleming quits as Southern Brave head coach

Former New Zealand batter, Stephen Fleming has stepped down from the head coach role of the Southern Brave men’s team in The Hundred due to family reasons. Fleming, who took over the role from Mahela Jayawardene before the 2023 season, successfully guided the Brave to two consecutive knockout stages, including a final appearance last season. 

Fleming’s resignation ensures he avoids a potential conflict of interest, given his long-standing association with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Delhi Capitals’ co-owners, the GMR Group, became the majority shareholders in Southern Brave following their acquisition of Hampshire in 2023. This development would have placed Fleming in the difficult position of coaching a team partially owned by a rival IPL franchise.

Fleming’s resignation comes with increasing arrangements between The Hundred franchises and their host county clubs as part of the tournament’s ongoing privatization efforts. Southern Brave, aligned with Hampshire, has named Hampshire head coach Adi Birrell as Fleming’s successor for the 2025 season. 

"I absolutely loved my time at Southern Brave, working in the Hundred and working with a great group of people at Utilita Bowl. We got close to winning a couple of times so it's difficult to step down but for family reasons I need to be able to dedicate more time to being at home this season. I wish everyone at Southern Brave the best for 2025," Fleming said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Also Read: Hundred 2025: Justin Langer appointed as London Spirit head coach

Stephen created an excellent environment: Giles White

Meanwhile, Birrell has had recent successes in franchise cricket, including back-to-back SA20 titles with Sunrisers Eastern Cape, and brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Giles White, director of cricket at both Southern Brave and Hampshire, spoke about Birrell’s appointment.

"Stephen created an excellent environment for the players and it has been an enjoyable and successful stint with us… In his place we are delighted to welcome Adi Birrell and look forward to seeing him build on the team's success in 2025," White said.

White and Birrell face the critical task of finalizing the Brave’s squad for 2025 by February 24. Teams can retain up to 11 players, including one designated central contract player and one overseas signing. The ECB’s introduction of a new top men’s salary of GBP 200,000 is expected to attract elite international talent to The Hundred.