Former England fast bowler Bob Willis has said that Andy Flower would be "a huge loss" to the England setup if he decides to step down after the Ashes series.
The 45-year-old's future is in doubt as the team trail 3-0 Down Under with two Tests still left to play, but the 64-year-old thinks that the Zimbabwean will stay in charge despite the defeat.
"He'll be a huge loss if he does decide to pack up and I hope he doesn't," Willis told Sky Sports News. "England need him more than ever at the moment.
"There's been speculation about Flower's future ever since he stepped down from the one-day duties and Ashley Giles took over last year.
"The watersheds always used to be World Cups but Andy has opted out of one day cricket because of the pressure on his family life so it's more difficult to say there is a natural time for him to throw the towel in. But I think he'll stay and I hope he does."
Flower was named full-time England coach in April 2009.
Michael Penkman
