- Brendon McCullum will remain England’s Test coach in his new role
- Rob Key explained that less crowds in the matches made the decision possible
- Matthew Mott sacked as white-ball coach after England’s poor white-ball form
Brendon McCullum has been appointed England’s new white-ball coach after chief executive Rob Key decided to merge the roles following the sacking of Matthew Mott.
McCullum will remain head coach of the Test team and will only take charge of the limited-overs teams during the white-ball tour of India early next year, followed swiftly by the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. His ECB contract has been extended by two years, until the end of 2027 – meaning he will take charge of the Ashes series on home soil that year.
Marcus Trescothick will take temporary charge for the white-ball series against Australia this month and the tour of the Caribbean in late October, before handing over to McCullum in early 2025.
Key’s decision means the red- and white-ball coaching roles will be combined for the first time since Chris Silverwood was sacked following the 2021-22 Ashes. “It’s really exciting to now have all the teams on the same page and we’re looking forward to tackling all the challenges that come our way,” Key said.
McCullum, who captained New Zealand to the 2015 World Cup final, said: ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Test team and I am looking forward to expanding my role to the white-ball teams.
Brendon McCullum has been appointed coach of the England white-ball team following the sacking of Matthew Mott
McCullum pictured with ECB chief Rob Key (left) and England Test captain Ben Stokes (right)
Mott was sacked after England surrendered two world titles in just 12 months
McCullum says he is looking forward to working with England white-ball captain Jos Buttler
‘I look forward to working closely with Jos [Buttler]The talent within English cricket is immense and I look forward to helping these players reach their full potential.’
Key explained that the move was only possible because there will be less overlap in the competition schedule from next year.
“The last two years have seen constant clashes between formats making it difficult for the white-ball environment,” he said. “Thankfully, from January onwards, these will be less.
‘I am delighted that Brendon has chosen to take on both roles for England now. I believe we are incredibly fortunate to have a coach of his quality willing to commit himself fully to English cricket.’