Rob Key set to keep job but Brendon McCullum’s future in balance

Brendon McCullum’s future as head coach is more shaky, though, and will hinge on his willingness to accept the recommendations of the review in terms of planning, preparation, culture and broadening the management and coaching team around him.

Previous away Ashes defeats have often led to a cull of the management team but the ECB is reluctant to make such sweeping changes, believing that there has been some good progress with the Test team since Key took the role in May 2022. It is highly likely that Ben Stokes will stay on as Test captain, with the recognition that he is an outstanding leader who has a passion for Test cricket. The 34-year-old has already indicated that he wants to retain the captaincy, with a view to regaining the Ashes in 2027.

Speaking after England lost the fifth and final Ashes Test, McCullum hinted that he may not necessarily be willing to adapt his approach and would not just accept any changes imposed on him.

“Without being ultimately able to steer the ship — maybe there is someone better,” McCullum said. “I have firm belief in what works. Am I for being told what to do? Of course I’m not.”

The future of the former New Zealand captain as head coach of England’s Test and white-ball teams could hinge on how the team perform and conduct themselves in next month’s T20 World Cup, but even if they have success, the ECB may conclude that McCullum has taken the Test team, in particular, as far as he can.

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