Former England Test coach Brendon McCullum has issued an apology to supporters after being removed from the role, acknowledging that the team failed to achieve the level of success expected during his tenure. While he will remain in charge of England's white-ball teams, his stint as Test coach, which began in 2022, has come to an end.
McCullum addressed the media at Edgbaston on Monday ahead of England's ODI series against India, where he accepted the decision taken by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and said the Test side now needed fresh leadership.
The ECB confirmed on Sunday that McCullum had been relieved of his duties as Test coach. Speaking about the development, the former New Zealand captain said the initiative had come from the board.
"Yeah, I got a tap on the shoulder," he said.
"I was disappointed but at the same time I fully respect the decision. We're in a results business and fundamentally our results weren't good enough. It's time for someone else to have a go."
"For that I guess I can only say sorry," he said.
McCullum also took full responsibility for the team's performances and the environment created during his time in charge.
"I was the leader of that group. I was in charge of the team culturally, in charge of the team tactically, in charge of the team results-wise as well.
"I've been around this game for 20-odd years and I know if you aren't getting the results someone else needs an opportunity. I put my hand up for that and accept it wasn't good enough."
Reflecting on the timing of his departure, McCullum said it felt appropriate that it came soon after Ben Stokes stepped away from Test cricket.
Speaking to the BBC, he revealed that the former England captain had contacted him following the announcement.
"I got some nice messages from Stokesy," he said. "I guess, in a romantic kind of way there's something about Stokesy and me going out together. We started it together and we go out together, and I have no problem with that."
McCullum and captain Ben Stokes reshaped England's Test philosophy with their attacking brand of cricket, widely referred to as 'Bazball'. The partnership enjoyed an outstanding start, winning 10 of McCullum's first 11 Tests in charge while earning widespread acclaim for England's fearless approach.
The team's fortunes, however, declined towards the end of his tenure. England were defeated in seven of their final nine Test matches, including a 2-1 home series loss to New Zealand last month, a series that also marked Stokes' retirement from the longest format.
England were also unable to secure victories in either of their marquee Test rivalries under McCullum. They played out 2-2 home series draws against India and Australia, while suffering defeats in both away contests.
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