Brendon McCullum of his tight friendship with Ben Stokes, “We’ve developed over the last couple of years.”

Since becoming England head coach in 2022, Brendon McCullum and Test skipper Ben Stokes have been great friends. After being granted the duty to coach the white-ball team, McCullum reflected on the link that has driven England’s cricket comeback.

After McCullum became head coach and Stokes became captain two years ago, a new era began. “Bazball,” their aggressive style, has changed England’s fortunes in the longest format. Although McCullum loves their on-field achievements, Beyond professional interactions, both sportsmen have become good friends, which has helped them perform well on the pitch.

“When I joined the Test team, Stokesy and I knew each other and had respect for each other, but I wouldn’t say we were mates,” McCullum told a press conference.

I call him my close buddy because we’ve grown close over the years. As much as you do this for cricket, you want to build lasting connections and relationships, he said.

Recently named England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum

McCullum-Stokes have helped England dominate Test cricket. They implemented ambitious ideas and instilled fearlessness in the team due to their shared vision and trust.

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Brendon McCullum, the former New Zealand opener and skipper, will lead England’s white-ball sides. His connection with Stokes will shape his approach. England has a 2-0 Test series lead over Sri Lanka.