McCullum set to benamedTest chief
BRENDON McCullum could be England’s new Test coach by the end of the week, with the former New Zealand captain on the verge of being appointed.
McCullum was reported to be the leading candidate after a round of interviews led by the ECB’s director of cricket Rob Key at the start of the week, leapfrogging previous favourite Gary Kirsten, and the PA news agency understands the process is moving towards a swift conclusion.
If all goes smoothly an announcement could come as soon as today, but more time could be required to iron out the logistics.
The 40-year-old’s current role in charge of Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders was one potential discussion point, but further negotiations may not be necessary as it has been reported he has already told KKR he will be leaving his post to take up the reins with England.
McCullum, who has never coached a first-class side before, lmade 101 Test appearances during a 14-year international career with the Black Caps, as well as 331 in limitedovers cricket, and was an active player on the Twenty20 circuit as recently as 2019.
When news of McCullum’s interest in England first emerged, it was anticipated the limited-overs job would be his likeliest destination.
But his progressive, attacking philosophy also aligns with that of newly-installed Test captain Ben Stokes, who – along with Morgan – backed McCullum.
There is a chance he could come into contention for the limited-overs position, where he would face competition from current assistant coach and Durham great Paul Collingwood and Australian Simon Katich among others, but the ECB could leave that decision until next week.