Brendon McCullum defends Harry Brook, backs him to deliver after dismal Ashes performance

England head coach Brendon McCullum expressed faith in Harry Brook and pointed out his stunning numbers in Test cricket while defending him from criticism. The latter's performances came under the scanner during the Ashes with many former cricketers also bashing his reckless shot selection. He finished the series with 358 runs under his belt from 10 innings, including two half-centuries.

McCullum comes out in Brook's support

McCullum went on to back Brook amid the mounting criticism. In an interview with Nasser Hussain after the fifth Ashes Test, he highlighted the England vice-captain's phenomenal stats in the longest format and reiterated why he is known as one of the most promising cricketers from the new generation.

“For a start, Harry Brook averages 55 in Test cricket. 55. And he plays the same way every time. So he’s a generational talent with a very aggressive game, he knocks bowlers off their legs, he negates the amount of good balls the opposition can bowl,” McCullum said.

“I think there’s a slight misconception because of how he gets out that his input is not significant. 55 is world class. He’s still 26, his best years are in front of him and he’s had a hell of a start to his Test career, and he’s unique in how he goes about it," he added.

ALSO READ: Ruturaj Gaikwad scripts history, breaks all-time List A record with gritty hundred vs Goa in VHT

Though Brook was one of England's top performers with the bat, his contributions weren't enough to help the team in winning many games as Australia clinched the Ashes by 4-1. The hosts sealed the series by winning the first three matches before recording a defeat in Melbourne. However, they came back stronger and ended the assignment on a high by winning the fifth Test in Sydney.

McCullum under scrutiny after Ashes defeat

McCullum has also come under sharp criticism following the defeat to Australia with many questioning his coaching methods. There have also been calls to remove him as the side's head coach after the Ashes debacle. He will be hoping to turn things around by achieving success with the England team in the 2026 T20 World Cup that will commence from February 7.