Brendon McCullum, the newly appointed all-format head coach of England’s cricket team, has identified the need to revitalize the white-ball team by uplifting the spirits of captain Jos Buttler. McCullum believes that Buttler’s recent struggles with form and tactical errors have taken a toll on his demeanor, leading to a more negative disposition on and off the field.
McCullum, who has observed England’s decline from afar, believes that Buttler’s leadership is crucial to the team’s success. He aims to create an environment where players feel confident and supported, with Buttler providing the necessary encouragement and guidance. McCullum’s close friendship with Buttler, despite never having played alongside him, is seen as a key factor in fostering this positive atmosphere.
The former New Zealand captain is confident in his ability to help Buttler rediscover his former self, recognizing his exceptional talent and leadership qualities. McCullum believes that the final stages of Buttler’s career can be the most fulfilling, with the opportunity to enjoy the game and inspire his teammates.
McCullum also addressed the availability of Test captain Ben Stokes for limited-overs cricket. While Stokes has expressed his desire to focus on Test captaincy, McCullum hopes to persuade him to continue playing in white-ball formats. He believes that Stokes’ experience and leadership are invaluable, especially in major events and big series.
The coach emphasized the importance of managing player workloads, acknowledging that not all players can participate in every series. However, he stressed that the best players will be considered for major tournaments and high-profile matches.
