McCullum and Stokes bring jolt of excitement to new-look England
When England played New Zealand at Lord's last summer, caution took over.
Brendon Maccullum Sport News
England set to launch Ben Stokes era against New Zealand
England will hope to make a fresh start under their new leadership duo of captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum against the coach's native New Zealand at Lord's on Thursday. Stokes, himself born in New Zealand but brought up in Cumbria, northwest England, has succeeded Joe Root as England's Test skipper after his close friend stood down following a run of poor results. Chris Silverwood's sacking after a 4-0 Ashes series loss in Australia paved the way for McCullum's appointment as England's new Test coach, with the former New Zealand captain's first match in charge pitting him against a side he knows so well. England hope the attacking approach McCullum pioneered while kick-starting a New Zealand revival that culminated in the Black Caps being crowned World Test champions last year, by when he had retired as a player, will rub off on his new team. "My job will be to plan as if you'll live forever, but live as if you'll die tomorrow," said McCullum ahead of a three-match series.
Jonny Bairstow excited to begin England’s ‘new journey’ in Test cricket
Jonny Bairstow is thrilled to be part of England’s “new journey” at Lord’s this week, just days after arriving back from the Indian Premier League.
Stuart Broad: I’ll leave my heart and soul on the field for England
Stuart Broad has promised to “leave my heart and soul on the field” for England if he makes his comeback at Lord’s this week after his recent reminder to savour every appearance.
Tim Southee expects ‘exciting’ England team under Brendon McCullum
New Zealand seamer Tim Southee played 48 Test matches side by side with England’s new Test coach Brendon McCullum and expects him to deliver “exciting and fearless” performances.
England bowlers urged to use 'risky' tactics as Brendon McCullum demands wickets
Stokes relishing responsibility of England captaincy
England 'won't die wondering' under McCullum, says Southee
Tim Southee has forecast an exciting time for England under Brendon McCullum as the former New Zealand captain prepares to go up against the reigning World Test champions at Lord's. Thursday's opening match of a three-game series will be McCullum's first Test as England coach, with the hosts looking to him to kickstart their red-ball fortunes in much the same way he sparked a New Zealand revival when captain of his native country. England are currently on a miserable run of one win in 17 Tests, with McCullum something of a surprise choice to succeed Chris Silverwood given his lack of red-ball coaching experience, although he will be working alongside a captain with a similar outlook in the newly-appointed Ben Stokes.
England begin Test journey under new leadership of Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum
England cricket has embarked upon a new Test era with star all-rounder Ben Stokes as captain and New Zealand's Brendon McCullum, who was a trend-setting batsman in white-ball cricket, as coach of the red-ball team.