Sir Geoffrey Boycott has urged for the dismissal of Brendon McCullum following England’s humiliating loss in the Ashes. Australia secured a victory in the third Test by 82 runs, sealing the series outcome after just 11 days of play.
The only Ashes series resolved in fewer days was in 1921 when Australia claimed a 3-0 lead in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. Despite England’s upcoming matches in Melbourne and Sydney, aiming for their first Test win in Australia in 15 years, attention has already turned to post the 2025-26 series.
McCullum, 44, assumed his role in May 2022, guiding England from one win in 17 Test matches to 10 victories in their next 11 under Ben Stokes’ captaincy. However, since the 2-2 draw in the last Ashes series in 2023, their aggressive ‘Bazball’ style has faced criticism, with losses to India and a draw in the recent home series.
Amid hopes for success in Australia, England’s performance has faltered, prompting Boycott to advocate for the England and Wales Cricket Board to remove McCullum, who also coaches the white-ball teams.
Boycott, a vocal critic of Bazball, emphasized the need for change, stating that the current approach led by Stokes and McCullum is futile. He urged Robert Key, the England managing director, to take decisive action, suggesting a shift in coaching and captaincy strategies.
In response to England’s defeat in Adelaide, McCullum acknowledged his coaching errors, admitting the team’s lack of preparation for the crucial series. He expressed disappointment and took responsibility for the shortcomings, recognizing the need for self-assessment and improvement.
Sky has announced a reduction in the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the upcoming season, offering savings and an expanded coverage of live matches across various leagues, including the Premier League. The upcoming season will feature an increase in live Premier League games broadcasted by Sky.