London, July 13:
England’s aggressive “Bazball” phase in Test cricket came to an abrupt end after Brendon McCullum was removed as Test head coach, days after Ben Stokes retired from international cricket.
While the England and Wales Cricket Board said McCullum had stepped down, the former New Zealand captain indicated he had been sacked. He will, however, continue as head coach of England’s ODI and T20I teams.
Appointed in 2022 following a disastrous Ashes campaign, McCullum transformed England’s Test side alongside Stokes, introducing an ultra-attacking brand of cricket. The team won 10 of its first 11 Tests under the duo, redefining its approach and reviving fan interest.
However, a slump in form — with eight defeats in the last 12 Tests — and recent series setbacks raised concerns over the sustainability of the approach. Stokes’ retirement further marked the end of the leadership partnership that drove the transformation.
ECB officials credited McCullum for changing the team’s mindset and leaving behind a strong foundation, but said a change was needed as England prepares for the next Ashes cycle.
The board has begun the search for a new Test coach, signalling a fresh chapter in England’s red-ball journey.