McCullum fired as England test coach but will continue with T20 and ODI teams

That came on the heels of a 4-1 Ashes series loss Down Under in which the England team came under scrutiny for its perceived lack of professionalism.

Ben Stokes quit international cricket after the New Zealand series and now McCullum has gone, too, signaling the end of the so-called “Bazball” era — an entertaining but often flawed period for test cricket in England.

“Brendon breathed new life into 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,” said Richard Gould, CEO of the ECB. “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.”

The ECB called the “Bazball” era — when McCullum’s team played aggressive, fearless cricket — one of the most “exciting and progressive periods” in England’s test-playing history.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to watch him shape the mentality of the team,” ECB director Rob Key said, “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.”

McCullum said there had been “some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that’s all part of taking on a challenge like this.”

“I wish the test team nothing but success,” he said. “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.”

England’s next test series is against Pakistan starting next month.

McCullum has combined his white and red-ball roles since January 2025.

England’s T20 team has just thrashed India 4-0 in a home series to become the No. 1-ranked side in the world.

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AP cricket: https://apnews.com/hub/cricket

Steve Douglas, The Associated Press

by The Canadian Press

McCullum fired as England test coach but will continue with T20 and ODI teams

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