Brendon McCullum has been appointed head coach of England’s white-ball teams by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) will now be managed by the former opener for New Zealand, who has been coaching England’s Test squad since May 2022.
This move fits into a larger reorganisation of the England Men’s senior team. McCullum will assume the new duties in January 2025, coinciding with the Three Lions’ white-ball tour of India and the ICC Champions Trophy.
England’s Test team has undergone a transformation under his direction, winning accolades from all around the world for their aggressive style of cricket. The duration of his contract has been extended till the end of 2027. Marcus Trescothick will assume charge of the white-ball team during the interim time in preparation for the Caribbean tour later this year and the forthcoming series against Australia.
That Brendon has decided to play both roles with England going forward makes me very happy. I really feel that English cricket is really fortunate to have a coach of his calibre willing to dedicate himself fully to the game. The managing director of England Men’s Cricket, Rob Key, released a statement. “We are very excited to be able to align all teams now and we look forward to taking on all challenges that come our way.”
I have had a great time working with the Test team: Brendon McCullum
McCullum expressed his excitement at taking on the new task and his desire to collaborate closely with Jos Buttler, the captain of the white-ball team.
“I’m thrilled to expand my job to include the white-ball sides. I’ve had a great time working with the Test team. I’m prepared to take on this new task, and I’m excited to collaborate closely with Jos (Buttler) and the team to build on the solid foundations that are already in place,” he remarked.
The former Kiwi said that his decision to accept the position was motivated by Rob Key’s vision. In addition to thanking the ECB and the supporters for their support, he expressed his confidence in his ability to lead the players in both formats.
I completely agreed with Rob Key’s outlook for the future of English cricket. With the schedule relaxing for next year, the idea of a uniform coaching organisation made perfect sense. I’m excited about the opportunity to lead both teams, and I appreciate the ECB and my family’s support as I assume these new duties,” he continued.
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Following the conclusion of the home Test series against Sri Lanka next week, McCullum will have a brief vacation before heading out on tour with the Test side to Pakistan in October and the three-match Test series against New Zealand in December.
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