Brook hails Brendon McCullum’s impact in ODI series win over India
LONDON: England captain Harry Brook in action during the third ODI against India at Lord’s.—AFP LONDON: Harry Brook lauded coach Brendon McCullum for his role in England’s first One-day International series victory over India since 2018 following an...
England captain Harry Brook has credited Brendon McCullum’s tactical influence after his side sealed a 2-1 One-Day International series victory over India with a 27-run win at Lord’s on Sunday.
The result gave England their first ODI series triumph over India since 2018 and completed a strong run in the white-ball game, following a 4-0 T20 series sweep against the world champions. According to a monitored public feed from Dawn Sport, McCullum remains in charge of England’s white-ball teams despite being removed as Test coach after the recent home defeat by New Zealand.
England’s total of 387-3 set a new record for the highest ODI score at Lord’s and was built on Ben Duckett’s commanding 141. Fellow opener Jacob Bethell added 91, while Joe Root finished unbeaten on 74 and Jos Buttler provided late acceleration with 41 not out from just 13 deliveries.
India stayed in contention through a superb 138 from Rohit Sharma, which was the first ODI century by an India batsman at Lord’s. Virat Kohli also contributed 74, but England held their nerve at the end.
Brook said he had gone to speak with McCullum during a difficult phase of the innings and praised the communication between captain and coach. He said McCullum suggested bringing on Bethell, whose part-time spin proved decisive when he bowled Sharma. Brook described the exchange as part of the “outstanding” communication within the team setup, saying the coach’s view from above helped shape the successful decision.
The England captain also reflected on the demands of leadership across all three formats. He said it would be difficult to captain the team in Tests, ODIs and T20s at the same time, but did not rule it out if asked. Brook added that the decision would rest with the next Test coach.
McCullum, meanwhile, has said he is willing to work constructively with whoever takes over the Test side. England’s Test team are in a difficult spell, with seven defeats in their last nine matches, and are due to begin a home series against Pakistan next month.
Asked about the prospect of sharing responsibilities with a new Test coach, McCullum said he expected discussions to be collaborative and based on what would best serve English cricket. He said there would need to be some give and take, but that the guiding principle should remain the good of the team.
Former England coach Andy Flower has ruled himself out of contention for the Test job. Other names linked with the role include Jonathan Trott and former Australia coach Justin Langer.
McCullum said he had been encouraged by the progress of England’s white-ball sides and believes there is more growth ahead as the team builds toward next year’s ODI World Cup in southern Africa.
This report is based on a monitored public feed and is attributed to Dawn Sport.
Source: Dawn Sport - https://www.dawn.com/news/2017090/brook-hails-brendon-mccullums-impact-in-odi-series-win-over-india
