Former England captain Eoin Morgan has publicly advocated for the appointment of Brendon McCullum England's white-ball coach. Speaking ahead of the fourth day of the second Test against Sri Lanka, Morgan suggested that the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) should actively pursue McCullum as the head coach for the white-ball format.
Eoin Morgan urges Brendon McCullum to be England's white-ball coach
The position of white-ball coach has been vacant since Matthew Mott's resignation following England's disappointing performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup. The ECB is currently searching for a seasoned coach to fill the role.
Marcus Trescothick is England's current interim White-Ball coach
Marcus Trescothick is currently serving as England's interim head coach for the white-ball team, overseeing the upcoming series against Australia. While Brendon McCullum has been considered for the role, it is unlikely that he will accept. When McCullum was appointed England's Test coach, he was clear about his priorities and expressed a desire to limit his time away from home. Eoin Morgan, however, argued that if he were in Rob Key's position, he would actively pursue McCullum for the white-ball coach role.
Morgan even suggested a flexible arrangement, similar to Pakistan's hybrid model with Mickey Arthur, to accommodate McCullum's schedule.
“If I were Rob Key, I would be asking him what we can do to make this happen. He has made such a significant difference to this Test side; he can help Jos Buttler and his team,” Eoin Morgan was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.
“Even if that was a hybrid version in some form or another. He wouldn't have to be there day in and day out for each and every bilateral series. You talk about players being mobile because of the landscape of the game. Why can't we do that with coaches when the options arise?,” Morgan added.
Eoin Morgan's vision for England's Coach
Eoin Morgan believes that the role of England's coach should be highly sought after. He suggested that instead of allowing the coach to participate in leagues like the IPL, it would be more beneficial to focus on a few key bilateral series each year and be present for significant moments.
Morgan, who worked with Brendon McCullum at Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL, believes this approach could bring new energy, confidence, and belief to the England team. Interestingly, Morgan's name has also been mentioned as a potential candidate for the top job.
“The England coach should be the most sought-after job in the game. Why would you want him to go off and do IPL? Have him come in, do a handful of bilateral series throughout the year, and then be there for the major moments. Breathe fresh air into that changing room and confidence and belief,” England's World Cup-winning captain concluded.
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