Ben Stokes praises Brendon McCullum's appointment as England's new limited-overs coach
Author: Vishnu Reddy
Updated At:
Ben Stokes, England’s Test captain, has hailed the appointment of Brendon McCullum as the new limited-overs coach for England, calling it an "unbelievable move" by the ECB. Stokes believes McCullum’s leadership will greatly benefit the upcoming generation of cricketers transitioning into England’s white-ball teams.
The ECB confirmed McCullum’s dual role on Tuesday, with him overseeing both red and white-ball teams starting in 2025, as part of a new three-year contract that extends until 2027. Since May 2022, McCullum, with Stokes by his side, has transformed England’s Test team, achieving 19 wins out of 28 matches and securing six series victories out of nine.
While the Test team has thrived, England’s white-ball squad has struggled following the decline of the golden generation that secured the 2019 World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup. Matthew Mott, the former limited-overs coach, stepped down in July after disappointing performances at the 2023 World Cup and T20 tournaments.
McCullum Shifts Focus to Re-enforcing the ODI & T20I squad
McCullum's focus now shifts to reinvigorating England’s white-ball teams, a challenge he’s already proven capable of handling with the Test side. His appointment also opens up the question of Stokes’ future in limited-overs cricket, as he previously opted out of the T20 World Cup but is rumoured to be available for the 2025 Champions Trophy.
At a Red Bull event in London, Stokes expressed enthusiasm for the decision, especially for the benefit of white-ball captain Jos Buttler and the newer players. Stokes even hinted that he might have had a role in securing McCullum’s appointment.
“I was very surprised by the news,” Stokes said jokingly. “But honestly, I think it’s an unbelievable move for English cricket to have one coach overseeing all formats. What Baz has done with the Test side is remarkable.”
Stokes praised McCullum’s leadership style, particularly his ability to encourage players to enjoy the game and play without unnecessary pressure. “I think Jos is going to love working with Baz, and the young players coming through couldn’t have a better coach to guide them,” Stokes added.
Stokes Uncertain for Test Series against Pakistan
As for his own fitness, Stokes admitted he’s uncertain whether he’ll be ready for England’s first Test against Pakistan on October 7. He’s currently recovering from a torn hamstring sustained during The Hundred and undergoing rehab with the England squad during their series against Sri Lanka.
Though Stokes is eager to return, he’s mindful of the risk of re-injury. “The recurrence rate for hamstring injuries is high, so I’m being cautious. I’d rather take an extra couple of weeks to recover fully than risk aggravating it and being out longer,” he explained.
Despite the boredom of rehab, Stokes remains optimistic about his progress. "It's slow, but I'm doing everything I can to be fit for that first Test. It's a steady process, but I'm staying focused."
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