England white-ball captain Harry Brook has paid an emotional tribute to Brendon McCullum following the former New Zealand skipper’s departure as England’s Test head coach.
Brook credited McCullum for playing a significant role in his career and hailed the impact he had on England’s red-ball setup during his tenure.
McCullum stepped down as England’s Test coach after the team’s recent Test series defeat, bringing an end to his four-year stint in charge. Since taking over in 2022 alongside then-Test captain Ben Stokes, the 43-year-old transformed England’s approach to Test cricket with the aggressive ‘Bazball’ philosophy, although a series of disappointing results eventually brought his tenure to a close.
Brook, who established himself as a regular in England’s Test side under McCullum, admitted that the coach’s departure was difficult to accept. Speaking to reporters after England’s six-wicket defeat to India in the first ODI at Edgbaston, the right-handed batter reflected on McCullum’s influence on his career.
“It was obviously disappointing for me. I think he’s played a massive part in my career. I’ve only ever played under him, and he’s been awesome for me,” Brook told reporters.
The England skipper also praised McCullum for changing the mindset of the Test team and helping revive the side over the last few years.
“The things that he did for the Test side when he first came in, in the last few years, have been phenomenal. He’s going to be missed,” Brook said.
Following Ben Stokes‘ retirement from Test cricket during the New Zealand series, Brook has emerged as one of the frontrunners to become England’s next Test captain. However, the 27-year-old made it clear that the decision rests entirely with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).
“It’s not up to me to make that decision. Whatever decision they make, I’ll be fully behind them; I’m enjoying my role as white-ball captain at the minute. I think we’re heading in the right direction, and what will be, will be. As I said, it’s not for me to make that decision,” he concluded.
Brook is currently captaining England in the three-match ODI series against India. The hosts trail 0-1 after suffering a six-wicket defeat in the series opener at Edgbaston, with the second ODI set to be crucial for keeping the series alive.