Brendon McCullum to Lead England’s Test and White-Ball Cricket Teams

London [UK], September 4: Brendon McCullum, the former New Zealand cricket captain, has been appointed as the head coach of England’s white-ball teams in addition to his role as the Test team coach. This decision was confirmed by the England Cricket Board (ECB) as part of a strategic restructure.

McCullum has been leading England’s Test team since May 2022 and has extended his contract until the end of 2027. He will start his new role with both the Test and white-ball teams in January 2025, coinciding with England’s white-ball tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy.

Under McCullum’s leadership, the English Test team has seen a strong revival with an aggressive batting style known as ‘Bazball’. This approach has helped England win several important matches and series.

Former England cricketer Michael Atherton commented on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast that this new role will be a big challenge for McCullum. Atherton acknowledged McCullum’s credentials but noted the added responsibility and time required to prepare the one-day team.

Atherton also mentioned that India has had a similar approach with one coach, Rahul Dravid, handling both roles until recently. He pointed out that McCullum initially saw the one-day job as easier compared to the Test team, but now the roles have reversed.

After the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka concludes at the Kia Oval next week, McCullum will take a short break in New Zealand. He will then rejoin the Test team for their winter tours of Pakistan in October and a three-match Test series against New Zealand in December.