McCullum sacked as England Test head coach

The BBC reports on the sacking of Brendon McCullum as England's Test coach, framing it as the end of the 'Bazball' era. The decision follows a series of losses and internal team instability.
Why it matters
The departure of a high-profile coach during a period of team transition significantly impacts the future trajectory of English Test cricket.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Brendon McCullum became England Test head coach in May 2022
Cricket Correspondent Published 12 July 2026 Brendon McCullum has been sacked as Test coach in another staggering twist in the unravelling of the England team.
Two weeks after Ben Stokes made the stunning announcement to step down as captain and retire from international cricket, McCullum's exit brings a definitive end to the Bazball era.
The New Zealander will continue as England's white-ball coach, but he leaves the Test team following a string of poor results and several off-field incidents.
Director of cricket Rob Key will remain in position, with the decision to remove McCullum coming after the hierarchy of the England and Wales Cricket Board spent time reflecting on the situation surrounding the men's team.
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