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Former New Zealand captain to continue leading England’s white-ball teams
LONDON, July 12 (Alliance News): Brendon McCullum will step down as head coach of England’s Test cricket team after four years in the role, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced on Sunday.
McCullum, who took charge of the Test side in 2022 alongside then-captain Ben Stokes, played a key role in transforming England’s approach to red-ball cricket with an aggressive and entertaining style of play.
Despite stepping away from the Test role, the former New Zealand captain will continue as head coach of England’s men’s white-ball teams, the ECB confirmed.
The announcement comes shortly after England suffered a home Test series defeat to New Zealand, during which Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket.
Reflecting on his tenure, McCullum said coaching England’s Test team had been one of the most rewarding experiences of his career.
“I’ve absolutely loved coaching the Test team and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together,” McCullum said in a statement released by the ECB.
“There have been some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that’s all part of taking on a challenge like this.”
ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould praised McCullum for revitalising England’s Test side and restoring excitement to the team’s performances.
“Brendon breathed new life into England’s Test side during an exciting period that delivered some memorable victories, and we’re grateful for everything he has given to the role,” Gould said.
England Managing Director Rob Key also paid tribute to McCullum, saying some of England’s most memorable moments in recent years had come under his leadership.
“It has been an absolute privilege to watch him shape the mentality of the team and develop a new generation of players who will form the core of England’s future sides,” Key said.
The ECB confirmed that the recruitment process for a new England Test head coach will begin immediately.
McCullum’s tenure is widely credited with changing the culture of England’s Test team, encouraging fearless cricket and helping rebuild the side into one of the most entertaining teams in international cricket.
While his chapter as Test coach comes to an end, he will remain responsible for England’s white-ball teams as they prepare for future international tournaments.
