Brendon McCullum officially named as England’s Test coach
In what comes as big news, Brendon McCullum has been named as the head coach of England’s Test team. Several reports pertaining to the same were doing rounds on social media for the last few days. However, the ECB confirmed the news on Thursday.
McCullum is unarguably one of the most respected individuals in the cricketing fraternity. Besides, he is an absolute legend, and has achieved a lot as a player as well. The Kiwi legend replaces Chris Silverwood, who left the role after England’s 0-4 defeat to Australia in the Ashes 2021-22. Thus, the 40-year-old shall be starting his new role during England’s three-match Test series against New Zealand in June.
McCullum is currently in India, as he is the coach of the Kolkata-based franchise in the Indian T20 League. The former Kiwi skipper expressed his delightment upon being assigned the new role. He stated that he was aware of the challenges he will be facing during his coaching stint. McCullum then drew light on Ben Stokes, who was recently named as England’s new Test captain.
“I’d like to say how pleased I am to be given this opportunity to positively contribute to England’s Test cricket set-up and move the team forward into a more successful era. In taking this role on, I am acutely aware of the significant challenges the team faces at present, and I strongly believe in my ability to help the team emerge as a stronger force once we’ve confronted them head-on.
Ben Stokes is the perfect character to inspire change around him, and I look forward to working closely with him to build a successful unit around us,” said Brendon McCullum in a statement released by the ECB.
In the meanwhile, England’s Managing Director Rob Key spoke about the appointment of McCullum. He was confident that the Kiwi legend would do a good job for the English side. Further on, he believed that he is the right person to change England’s fortunes in red-ball cricket.
“We are delighted to confirm Brendon as England Men’s Test Head Coach. It has been a real privilege to get to know him and understand his views and vision for the game. I believe his appointment will be good for England’s Test team. He has a recent history of changing cricket culture and environments for the better, and I believe he is the person to do that for England’s red-ball cricket,” said Rob Key.
