Brendon McCullum will stand down as England Men’s Test Head Coach but continue to lead the England Men’s White Ball teams.
McCullum’s tenure as Test Head Coach will come to an end after four years in charge, having led the England team through one its most exciting and progressive periods in its Test playing history.
ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould said: “Brendon breathed new life into England Men’s Test team during an exciting period which saw some amazing victories, and we’re grateful for all he has given to the role. We now believe that the time is right to make a change for the Test team as we target victory in The Ashes next summer.”
McCullum, whose T20 team reached the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup semi-final earlier this year and have just beaten India to become the number one ranked team in the world, will continue as England Men’s White Ball Head Coach.
England Men’s Managing Director Rob Key said: “Some of England's most memorable moments in recent history have occurred under Brendon’s leadership of the Test team.
“It’s been an absolute privilege to watch him shape the mentality of the team, to one the players have loved, and see him develop a new generation of talent who will be at the heart of England Men’s teams for years to come. He leaves the Test team well-set and poised to achieve great things.”
Brendon McCullum said: “I've absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together. There've been some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that's all part of taking on a challenge like this.
“It’s been a privilege and an honour, and I’m grateful. Grateful to the players, the staff and the fans who supported us on the journey.
“Of course I'm gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision. My focus now is on giving everything I've got to the White Ball teams and helping England keep moving forward.
“I wish the Test team nothing but success. There's a hell of a lot of talent in that dressing room and they're a special bunch of lads. I'll always be backing the boys, with a smile on my face, and hoping they keep taking the game on. I know they'll continue to make people proud.”
The process to recruit a new Head Coach for the England Men’s Test team will now begin.