NEW DELHI: England Cricket on Tuesday announced that current Test team coach Brendon McCullum will also take charge of the one-day international (ODI) and Twenty20 (T20) teams beginning next year.

The shift is part of a new leadership structure announced by England Cricket with McCullum’s contract with the ECB extended until 2027.

Historically, the rigorous international schedule has made it difficult for one individual to manage both the Test and limited-overs teams due to overlapping matches.

However, the ECB and McCullum believe that changes to the calendar will now make it feasible to adopt a unified coaching structure starting in January.

“The idea of a unified coaching structure, especially with the schedule easing next year, made perfect sense,” McCullum said.

“I’m energized by the prospect of guiding both teams and am grateful for the support from the ECB and my family as I take on these added responsibilities.”

Matthew Mott, the former white-ball coach, resigned on July 30 following a disappointing period where England struggled to defend its ODI and T20 world titles.

Despite Mott leading England to the T20 World Cup title in 2022, the team’s performance under his tenure failed to meet expectations, with captain

Jos Buttler’s leadership also coming under scrutiny.

Rob Key, the managing director of England men’s cricket, determined that a change was necessary, leading to McCullum’s new role.

McCullum, a New Zealander affectionately nicknamed ‘Baz’, has been credited with improving the performance of England’s Test team through his aggressive and emboldened ‘Bazball’ approach. The strategy encourages players to be more attacking in their play and removes the fear of recrimination for risky options.

“The talent within English cricket is immense, and I’m looking forward to helping these players reach their full potential,” McCullum said.

“My goal is to create an environment where everyone can thrive and where we can continue to compete at the highest level across all formats.”

McCullum’s dual responsibilities will commence in January, coinciding with England’s white-ball tour of India and the Champions Trophy.

Until then, Marcus Trescothick will serve as the interim coach for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia and the tour of the Caribbean.

“I believe we are incredibly fortunate that a coach of his quality is prepared to commit wholeheartedly to English cricket,” Key said of McCullum.

“Being able to align all teams now is particularly exciting and we look forward to taking on all challenges that come our way.

“For the last two years, constant clashes between formats have made it challenging for the white-ball environment; fortunately, these are easing starting from January. The timing of the schedule (from January) will allow him to dedicate the necessary focus to both roles, and we’re confident this restructure will bring out the best in our players and coaching staff.”

England once held both white-ball world titles after winning the 50-over World Cup in 2019 and the T20 World Cup in 2022. However, they lost the 50-over title last year after a poor performance in India, losing six out of nine group games. Additionally, the team suffered a heavy defeat in the T20 World Cup semifinals to eventual champions India in June.

Agencies

Agencies