England head coach Brendon McCullum says he wants to stay in the job, but admits his future is not entirely in his own hands. The New Zealander is under contract until 2027, but England’s heavy Ashes defeat in Australia has raised questions about what happens next.
McCullum said he enjoys the role and focuses on getting the best out of his players rather than worrying about job security. He accepted that decisions about his future will be made by others, including the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
Captain Ben Stokes has also said he wants to continue leading England, with both men signed up until 2027. Despite a strong start to McCullum’s reign, where England won 10 of his first 11 Tests, results have since dipped. England have not won a Test series against Australia or India during this period and are now winless in Australia for 18 straight matches.
McCullum said England have improved as a team and built a clear identity, even if results have not always followed. With two Tests left in the Ashes, he urged his side to show that identity and try to avoid a 5-0 series whitewash.
England may make changes for the fourth Test in Melbourne, with Ollie Pope possibly dropped and adjustments considered to the bowling attack. However, McCullum ruled out calling in players from outside the current squad, saying selections will depend on conditions and balance.
Despite criticism and mixed messages in recent weeks, McCullum insisted he continues to back his players publicly while challenging them privately, and hopes the squad still believes in his approach.
