Stephen Fleming Steps Down as Southern Brave Head Coach: Adi Birrell to Take Over

Stephen Fleming has stepped down as the head coach of Southern Brave in the men’s Hundred. The former New Zealand skipper, who replaced Mahela Jayawardene last year, led the Brave to two consecutive knockout stages. His tenure included an eliminator loss in his first season and a runner-up finish last year.

Fleming cited family commitments as the primary reason for his decision. “I absolutely loved my time at Southern Brave,” he said in a statement. “We got close to winning a couple of times, so it’s difficult to step down, but for family reasons, I need to dedicate more time at home this season.”

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Adi Birrell to Take Charge in 2025

Southern Brave have announced Hampshire head coach Adi Birrell as Fleming’s replacement for the 2025 season. Birrell, a seasoned coach with a proven track record, recently led Sunrisers Eastern Cape to consecutive SA20 titles. He will become the first county head coach to simultaneously lead a men’s Hundred team.

Giles White, the Brave’s director of cricket, expressed confidence in Birrell’s ability to continue the team’s success. “Stephen created an excellent environment for the players,” White said. “We’re delighted to welcome Adi and look forward to seeing him build on the team’s achievements in 2025.”

Strategic Moves Amid Privatisation and New Rules

The move comes as Hundred franchises deepen ties with their host counties as part of the privatisation process. Hampshire, co-owned by the GMR Group—which also co-owns Delhi Capitals—is set to become the Brave’s majority shareholder this year.

Fleming’s resignation also avoids potential conflicts of interest. As a long-time Chennai Super Kings coach, his departure prevents him from coaching a team partially owned by a rival IPL franchise.

Birrell’s appointment aligns with the Brave’s vision to strengthen their core. Teams have until February 24 to finalize their retained players for 2025. Each franchise can retain up to 11 players, including one direct overseas signing. The ECB hopes the new £200,000 salary cap will attract world-class talent to the tournament.

Southern Brave are the fifth Hundred team to appoint a new head coach this winter. Justin Langer, Ali Maiden, Michael Klinger, and Lisa Keightley have also taken on coaching roles for various franchises in the men’s and women’s tournaments.

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