'I didn't want the job': McCullum on his stint as England’s Test head coach

Brendon McCullum (PC: Twitter)

Former New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum is having the time of his life as England’s head coach in the purest format of the game. McCullum, along with the skipper Ben Stokes, has changed the fate of England’s Test team. Under the leadership of the decorated duo, the Englishmen haven’t lost even a single Test series defeating the likes of New Zealand, India, and South Africa.

Though McCullum is now enjoying a purple patch in his coaching career, he took his own time to warm to the idea of being the Test coach. Recently, the veteran revealed that he was against the idea of taking up the job and it took him a lot of introspection and thinking to finally say  yes.

The coach speaks about the England team

The Kiwi superstar isn’t regretting his decision, as he is loving his job of working with some of the greatest cricketing minds. The 40-year-old lauded England players for their immense talent and dedication towards the sport. Before the England assignment, McCullum was associated with the IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders as their head coach.

McCullum was quoted as saying by India Today:

"Well, I didn't actually want the [England] job! But now I've got it, I'm loving it! Absolutely I am, and it's certainly different from what I've ever done before. I'm loving the opportunity to work with some of the best players in the world. I always looked at English cricket and thought there was an immense amount of talent.”

McCullum hails Ben Stokes

Meanwhile, McCullum also reflected on the Test captain Ben Stokes. The dynamic captain and coach duo have garnered a lot of attention for their 'Bazball' approach. The two believe in the aggressive approach and under their regime, the England batters have looked pretty solid in Tests.

The legendary New Zealand cricketer lauded Stokes for being a natural leader and taking the team to new heights.

"It's been an absolute pleasure to work alongside them, and I've particularly enjoyed working alongside the skipper [Stokes]. He's a rare human being and an incredible person. He's a great thinker of the game, his messaging has been excellent as well. I thought he'd be good, I didn't realize he'd be this good. A natural leader. It's a wonderful fit for him.”

During his stint as the head coach, McCullum wants to bring back the excitement in the Test cricket to ensure its longevity.

Also Read: 'He's galvanised the team': Joe Root heaps praise on Ben Stokes