Brendon McCullum has been dismissed as England's Test cricket coach after four years, a decision he described as "gutted." The sacking follows England's recent Test series defeat against New Zealand, which marked their first home series loss in at least three games since 2012. McCullum's departure comes only two weeks after Test captain Ben Stokes announced his retirement from the format, ending a dynamic partnership that began in 2022.
McCullum will continue in his role as the white-ball coach, a position from which he recently led England to the No. 1 world ranking in T20 cricket with a 4-0 series victory over India. His tenure as Test coach saw 27 wins, 20 defeats, and two draws in 49 matches.
Rob Key, the managing director who was involved in the decision to remove McCullum, is understood to remain in his position. England is now actively searching for a new Test coach, with the team's next engagement being a three-match series against Pakistan scheduled to begin at Headingley on August 19.
McCullum expressed pride in the team's achievements, stating, "I’ve absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together." He acknowledged the highs and lows of the challenge, expressing gratitude to the players, staff, and fans. "Of course I’m gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision," McCullum said. "My focus now is on giving everything I’ve got to the white-ball teams and helping England keep moving forward."
He also offered his support to the Test team, adding, "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 commented on McCullum's impact, noting, "Some of England’s most memorable moments in recent history have occurred under Brendon’s leadership of the Test team." He highlighted McCullum's ability to shape the team's mentality and develop new talent. "He leaves the Test team well-set and poised to achieve great things," Key added.
ECB chief executive Richard Gould stated, "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." Gould concluded, "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."