Today's Date

Blog Post

Sports Platform Live - Breaking Sports News & Updates > Cricket > England starts white-ball era with McCullum vs India

England starts white-ball era with McCullum vs India

England Begin White-Ball Era Under McCullum Against India in Kolkata

England is set to embark on a new white-ball era under head coach Brendon McCullum as they face India in a five-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series, starting Wednesday in Kolkata. Known for his aggressive coaching philosophy, McCullum has promised to bring the same attacking style to England’s limited-overs setup that revitalized their Test team since he took over in 2022.

McCullum steps into the role after Matthew Mott’s tenure ended last year, following England’s inability to defend their T20 and 50-over World Cup titles in the 2023-24 season. Now tasked with reigniting England’s white-ball dominance, McCullum is focused on winning games while delivering an entertaining brand of cricket.

“Obviously, we want to win every game we play and be successful—that’s the mission,” McCullum said. “I’m desperate for us to play a really watchable brand of cricket. With the talent we have, there’s no reason why we can’t.”

The coach highlighted England’s strength across all departments, praising their powerful batting lineup, skilled spinners, athletic fielding, and pace bowlers. “We’ve got options to entertain and give ourselves the greatest chance of success,” McCullum added.

England captain Jos Buttler, who McCullum believes still has his “best years ahead,” will focus on his leadership and batting, while Phil Salt is expected to take up wicketkeeping duties in the T20Is.

On the other side, world champions India will use the series to assess seamer Mohammed Shami, returning to international cricket after more than a year recovering from ankle surgery. Suryakumar Yadav will captain the Indian side in the absence of pace ace Jasprit Bumrah, who is sidelined with back spasms but is expected to feature in the three-match ODI series following the T20s.

The series will also serve as critical preparation for India as they aim to have a fully fit Bumrah lead their attack in the Champions Trophy next month. Both teams will look to make a statement in this high-profile contest, setting the stage for an exciting white-ball season ahead.