Brendon McCullum named England’s new white-ball head coach

McCullum is already associated with the England Test team as head coach for the past two years.

Brendon McCullum | Getty

England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday (September 3) confirmed the appointment of Brendon McCullum as their new white-ball head coach.

McCullum replaced Matthew Mott in this role and will begin his stint in January 2025. He is already associated with the England Test team as head coach for the past two years.

“McCullum, who has been at the helm since May 2022, has extended his contract until the end of 2027. He will assume leadership of both the Test and white-ball teams starting January 2025, coinciding with England’s white-ball tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy,” ECB said in a statement.

In the interim, Marcus Trescothick will serve as Interim Head Coach for the upcoming series against Australia and the tour of the Caribbean later this year.

“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team, and I’m excited to extend my role to include the white-ball sides. This new challenge is something I’m ready to embrace, and I’m eager to work closely with Jos (Buttler) and the team to build on the strong foundations that are already in place,” McCullum said in a statement issued by ECB.

“Rob Key’s vision for the future of English cricket is something that really resonated with me. The idea of a unified coaching structure, especially with the schedule easing next year, made perfect sense. I’m energised by the prospect of guiding both teams and am grateful for the support from the ECB and my family as I take on these added responsibilities.

“The talent within English cricket is immense, and I’m looking forward to helping these players reach their full potential. My goal is to create an environment where everyone can thrive and where we can continue to compete at the highest level across all formats,” he added.

Commenting on the development, Rob Key, Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, said: “I’m delighted that Brendon has chosen to do both roles now with England. I believe we are incredibly fortunate that a coach of his quality is prepared to commit wholeheartedly to English cricket.

“Being able to align all teams now is particularly exciting and we look forward to taking on all challenges that come our way.

“For the last two years, constant clashes between formats have made it challenging for the white-ball environment; fortunately, these are easing starting from January.

“The timing of the schedule (from January) will allow him to dedicate the necessary focus to both roles, and we’re confident this restructure will bring out the best in our players and coaching staff.”

After the culmination of the ongoing Test series against Sri Lanka next week, McCullum will take a short break before joining the Test team for their tours of Pakistan in October and the three-match Test series against New Zealand in December.

 

 
 

By Salman Anjum - 03 Sep, 2024

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