Andy Flower will be seen in Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the next year of Indian Premier League (IPL). He will be the head coach of the team by replacing Sanjay Bangar. Sanjay Bangar’s tenure as a head coach ended this year after the IPL and his contract was renewed. Also the director of cricket operations in RCB, Mike Hesson’s tenure was also not renewed till now.
Previously Andy Flower was the head of Lucknow Super Giants who was replaced by Justin Langer as their in the 2nd week of July. Under Flower coaching, KL Rahul’s team performed well, standing 3rd in 2022 and 2023 IPL group standings.
Andy Flower says,
“RCB have an unrivaled fan following and I can’t wait to fully experience the atmosphere in the Chinnaswamy next season. I recognise the work put in by Mike Hesson and Sanjay Bangar, who are two coaches I respect, and I look forward to the challenge of taking RCB to new heights. I am particularly excited to be reunited with Faf, (RCB Captain). We have worked very well together in the past and I look forward to forging our partnership and relationship into something bigger and better.
We have an exciting roster of players to work with, and I recognise and will relish both the amazing opportunity with RCB but also the responsibility that comes with the role. It is a great challenge, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Prathmesh Mishra, Chairman of RCB,
“We would like to thank Mike Hesson and Sanjay Bangar for their excellent work in the past four seasons culminating in three play-offs. Their professionalism and work ethics have always been held in high regard. They leave us with a legacy of having given several young players the confidence to show their ability at the highest stage. On behalf of RCB, I would like to wish both of them all the best for their future endeavours and welcome Andy Flower to take the baton forward to achieve greater heights with RCB.”
Flower was also the head coach of the England cricket team from 2009 -2014. Had a great record in coaching and won the 2010 T20 World Cup and also the Ashes series in his tenure. This ex-Zimbabwean player also does coaching in other leagues also, Multan Sultans (PSL), Trent Rockets (The Hundreds), Maratha Arabians (Abu Dhabi T10) and Gulf Giants (ILT20).
Sanjay Bangar, ex RCB coach says,
“I have had an incredible journey with the franchise. Working with this remarkable team and being part of the RCB has been a rewarding experience. I wish the players, the management and the entire RCB team all the best.”
Mike Hesson, ex-director of cricket operations, says
“I would like to thank the RCB management, players, support staff, and the fans for a journey filled with moments that I will forever cherish.”