England have removed Brendon McCullum from his position as men’s Test head coach following a difficult run of results, although the former New Zealand captain will continue leading the national white ball sides.
The ECB made the change after England suffered a 2 to 1 home series defeat against New Zealand. It comes only months after McCullum received public support despite a damaging 4 to 1 Ashes loss in Australia.
McCullum admitted he was deeply disappointed but accepted the decision. He also expressed pride in his time with the Test squad and confirmed his full attention would now turn towards England’s limited overs teams.
Appointed in 2022, McCullum helped transform England’s approach alongside captain Ben Stokes. The team won 10 of their first 11 Tests under his guidance, earning praise for an aggressive and fearless style of cricket.
However, performances gradually declined. McCullum finishes his Test coaching spell with 27 victories, two draws and 20 losses. Seven defeats arrived during England’s last nine Tests, while his side failed to secure a series triumph against Australia or India.
His reign began with a 3 to 0 home victory over New Zealand in 2022 and ended against the same opposition. The latest series defeat was followed by Stokes’ unexpected retirement, leaving England searching for both a new captain and coach.
ECB chief executive Richard Gould said McCullum had brought fresh energy to the Test side but believes a change is necessary ahead of next summer’s Ashes.
The recruitment process for a successor will begin immediately. Andrew Flintoff, Richard Dawson, Ryan Campbell and Justin Langer are among the possible candidates, while former England coach Andy Flower could also enter consideration.
McCullum will remain responsible for England’s white ball teams until the conclusion of next year’s 50 over World Cup.
