In a series of interesting events, former New Zealand batter Brendon McCullum has backed former teammate Stephen Fleming to do well as England's new Test coach. For those unaware, Fleming will take over the role from McCullum, as he was sacked by the ECB after the Test series loss against New Zealand.
Brendon McCullum backs Stephen Fleming
Joe Root has been reappointed as the skipper of the side for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, starting on August 19. On the other hand, Fleming will join the team later in the year.
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In an interaction with Sky Sports, the former England Test coach opened up on Fleming's appointment as his replacement, saying that the former CSK coach will be a good coach for the side as he is a little better than him as a tactician.
“I had a great time in my four years, but now it’s going in a different direction. I think Flem will be excellent; he’s a little bit like me, but better. That is how I would sum him up, said McCullum.
While continuing, McCullum congratulated ECB on getting someone like Fleming, who has proved his coaching acumen with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL, where he led the Yellow Army to five titles before mutually parting ways after the 2026 season.
"He will do a great job and the ECB have done incredibly well to get someone like him to commit to English cricket. It’s an outstanding achievement," added McCullum.
Notably, Marcus Trescothick will take over the coaching role on an interim basis for the three-game series against Pakistan, starting at Headingley on August 19. Fleming is set to assume the role on a regular basis later this year.
McCullum's role in England cricket
McCullum was sacked from his role as England's Test coach after the side endured a tough 1-2 loss against New Zealand, with the disappointing campaign also seeing red-ball captain Ben Stokes call time on his Test career.
Despite his Test exit, McCullum remains in charge of England's limited overs side. He recently oversaw an amazing T20I campaign against defending world champions India, with England completing a strong 4-0 series win.