Brendon McCullum has been sacked as England’s Test coach after four years in charge – and described himself as ‘gutted’ at the decision.
McCullum will continue in his role as white-ball coach, having just led the T20 side to No1 in the world with a 4–0 series victory over India. But the news comes only two weeks after the international retirement of Test captain Ben Stokes, with whom McCullum formed a dynamic partnership on his appointment in 2022.
His fate was sealed by England’s defeat in the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, a result that condemned them to a first home loss in a series of at least three games since 2012.
It is understood that the position of Rob Key, the managing director who was party to the decision to remove McCullum with only a year to go before England attempt to regain the Ashes on home soil, is safe.
England’s search for a new Test coach has already begun, with the team’s next assignment a three-match series against Pakistan starting at Headingley on August 19.
McCullum formed a close bond with Ben Stokes, who retired from Test cricket a fortnight ago
Brendon McCullum’s white-ball partnership with captain Harry Brook will continue
‘I’ve absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together,’ said McCullum, whose 49 Tests in charge produced 27 wins, 20 defeats and two draws.
‘There’ve been some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that’s all part of taking on a challenge like this. It’s been a privilege and an honour, and I’m grateful. Grateful to the players, the staff and the fans who supported us on the journey.
‘Of course I’m gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision. My focus now is on giving everything I’ve got to the white-ball teams and helping England keep moving forward.
‘I wish the Test team nothing but success. There’s a hell of a lot of talent in that dressing-room and they’re a special bunch of lads. I’ll always be backing the boys, with a smile on my face, and hoping they keep taking the game on. I know they’ll continue to make people proud.’
Key said: ‘Some of England’s most memorable moments in recent history have occurred under Brendon’s leadership of the Test team.
‘It’s been an absolute privilege to watch him shape the mentality of the team, to one the players have loved, and see him develop a new generation of talent who will be at the heart of England men’s teams for years to come. He leaves the Test team well-set and poised to achieve great things.’
ECB chief executive Richard Gould added: ‘Brendon breathed new life into the England men’s Test team during an exciting period which saw some amazing victories, and we’re grateful for all he has given to the role. We now believe that the time is right to make a change for the Test team as we target victory in The Ashes next summer.’
