Brendon McCullum On Brook's Role (Source: @ICC/x.com, @CricCrazyJohns/x.com)
After a disappointing draw in the T20I series against South Africa, England’s home summer has come to an end. Before they focus on their new assignment, England’s head coach Brendon McCullum dropped a big hint on Harry Brook’s upcoming role.
After the young English star took the responsibility of the white-ball side, his meteoric rise stunned the world. With the high-voltage Ashes on the horizon, McCullum has even hinted that Brook could step into a bigger leadership role.
McCullum On Brook’s New Role
After wrapping the home international summer season, England has set its focus on the next big assignment. Another exciting edition of the Ashes is coming up to excite the world. Ahead of that, the leadership role has sparked attention. As Ben Stokes is set to lead the team, Ollie Pope is currently playing the role of Test vice-captain, but Harry Brook has emerged as another potential option.
Being appointed in 2023, Pope also led England in five instances. But Harry Brook’s immense success in the limited overs is making him a strong contender for the role. As quoted by ESPNcricinfo, England’s head coach, Brendon McCullum, hinted at a possible change in England’s vice-captaincy.
“You're always looking at things, right? Every time you get together with a series, you discuss things. I think it's no secret that Harry Brook is emerging as a leader within English cricket, so that's something we need to work out. But whatever happens, a great team man understands that just because you haven't got a title, doesn't stop you from being a leader,” he said.
Heartfelt Applause For Brook
After Jos Buttler stepped down from his captaincy after the Champions Trophy 2025, Harry Brook was given the responsibility. In the first match as a captain, he led the side to an iconic 238-run victory against the West Indies, ending a seven-match losing streak. Praising Brook’s potential, Brendon McCullum lauded the young leader’s impact in limited-overs cricket.
“I've enjoyed working with Brooky, I think he's taken to the role really well, really quickly. Still a work in progress but he's got a demanding schedule himself and we have to be aware of that as we move forward,” he said.
“He's got a good head on his shoulders, he's well connected within the group. He keeps things very simple. We've got a really good relationship and I think that started well,” he said.
As the English side is preparing for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, Harry Brook has been rested and Jacob Bethell will lead the side in the series.
