Brendon McCullum has expressed his desire to remain as England head coach, despite presiding over another disappointing Ashes tour in Australia. The former New Zealand captain saw his side fall 3-0 behind after three Tests, leaving them facing the prospect of a rare 5-0 series defeat.

McCullum, 44, is contracted to England through the 2027 50-over World Cup, a period that includes the next home Ashes later that year. However, he acknowledges that the decision regarding his future will ultimately be made by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

“It’s a pretty good gig. It’s good fun,” McCullum told reporters in Melbourne. “You travel the world with the lads, try to play exciting cricket, and try to achieve some things. I just try to get the best out of people.”

England’s Struggles in Australia

Under McCullum, England initially experienced a revival in Test cricket. Alongside captain Ben Stokes, the coach presided over 10 wins in his first 11 games, giving the team a renewed identity. However, since that early success, England’s form has stagnated.

• England have not won a marquee five-match series against Australia or India since McCullum’s appointment.
• In 33 Tests under McCullum, England have won 15 and lost 16.
• Their winless streak in Australia now stands at 18 matches, with the team failing to secure a series victory in the country since 2010-11.

Despite these setbacks, Stokes confirmed he wants to remain captain, mirroring McCullum’s desire to continue in charge. Both men’s futures may be influenced by ECB managing director Rob Key, who is expected to address the media in Melbourne ahead of the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

McCullum Reflects on the Ashes Tour

McCullum admitted that not everything had gone to plan but emphasized the progress the team has made since his appointment in 2022.

“I’m enjoying the time with these guys and we’ve made progress from when I took over. We’re not the finished article, but we’ve definitely improved as a cricket team. We’ve had an identity about us,” he said.

The England coach acknowledged that questions over his position are out of his hands, focusing instead on preparing the team for the remainder of the series. He hinted that minor changes could be made for the fourth Test, such as adjustments to the pace attack and the potential dropping of batter Ollie Pope, while reserve Jacob Bethell waits in the squad.

Historical Context: England’s Ashes Woes

Former England skipper Sir Andrew Strauss emphasized that England’s recurring defeats in Australia are not solely down to coaches or captains.

• England have been swept 5-0 in Australia three times before: 2013-14, 2017-18, and 2021-22.
• Heavy losses have historically followed major tours, despite changes in management and leadership.

Strauss argued that systemic improvements in England’s high-performance systems are needed to compete effectively against Australia, stating that the focus must go beyond sacking coaches or captains.

Looking Ahead

McCullum also has to consider the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka early next year, which further complicates decision-making regarding his tenure. Initially appointed solely as Test coach, McCullum now also oversees England’s white-ball teams, giving him responsibility across all formats.

“We’ll try to show our identity in the last two Tests and salvage something from this series,” McCullum added, signaling his commitment to the team despite public scrutiny and challenging results.