Is Ravichandran Ashwin set to become England's new Test coach? Here's the truth behind the rumours

Is legendary Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin set to become England's next Test head coach? That is the question dominating social media after several posts claimed that the former India spinner is in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). 

The speculation gathered momentum soon after Brendon McCullum was removed as England's red-ball coach, with many fans believing Ashwin could be a surprise candidate.McCullum has stepped down from the red-ball role; he will continue to coach England's white-ball teams in ODIs and T20Is, leaving the Test coaching position vacant.

With one of the biggest coaching jobs in world cricket now open, several names have been linked with the role. Among them, Ashwin's name surprisingly gained traction across social media, with several unverified posts claiming that the Indian great had held meetings with ECB officials in the United States regarding the position.

No truth behind Ashwin-ECB meeting claims

Despite the widespread rumours, there is no evidence to suggest that the ECB has approached Ashwin for the Test coaching role.

Reports claiming that the veteran off-spinner met England officials in the US are false. The meetings referred to were reportedly linked to commercial discussions about the upcoming European T20 Premier League and had no connection to England's coaching setup.

As reported by The Sunday Guardian, sources close to the ECB have also dismissed the speculation, confirming that the board has neither contacted Ashwin nor held any discussions with him regarding the vacant position. At present, the rumours remain nothing more than social media speculation.

Meanwhile, Ashwin has been actively involved in cricket analysis through his digital platforms, where he has been sharing his views on India's ongoing tour of England.

Andy Flower leads the race for the England job

While Ashwin's name continues to circulate online, the actual list of contenders looks very different.

According to reports, former England head coach Andy Flower is currently the favourite to replace McCullum. Flower, who guided England to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test rankings during his previous stint, is believed to be open to the role if he is allowed to continue his IPL commitments with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Apart from Flower, England Lions coach Andrew Flintoff and former Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott are also among the names being considered by the ECB. Both have significant coaching experience at the international level.

As things stand, there is no credible report linking Ashwin to England's Test coaching vacancy. The former India spinner has never held a professional coaching role, and the claims connecting him with the ECB are unfounded. England is expected to appoint their new Test head coach before the upcoming home series against Pakistan, with the Ashes also on the horizon.