Ben Stokes has insisted he wants Brendon McCullum to remain as England head coach despite the team's Ashes defeat, but acknowledged the pair must work out how to improve the side. Speaking ahead of the fifth Test, Stokes said: 'There is no doubt in my mind me and Brendon are the right people to carry on doing this for the near future.'
The England captain accepted that the 3-1 series loss, with one Test to play, requires a review. He added: 'We need to put our heads together and go “What is it that we think we need to do to go to the next level?”' Stokes's endorsement is seen as crucial for McCullum's future, with the England and Wales Cricket Board wary of sweeping changes.
An internal review will examine pre-series preparation, training on tour, and the make-up of the backroom staff. Concerns have been raised about the lack of a fielding coach or wicketkeeping mentor, and bowling consultant David Saker is on a short-term deal. Rob Key, the England men's team director, has admitted McCullum's preference for a pared-back coaching set-up may have hindered the team in Australia.
The review will also look into the team culture, including alcohol consumption, and the cost-to-value ratio of McCullum-led extracurricular activities. Stokes noted that results have dipped since McCullum took on additional white-ball roles in early 2025, with England winning four of ten Tests compared to 22 of 35 beforehand. The one-day side has also struggled, winning four of 15 matches.
Despite this, Stokes said McCullum's dual role 'has not influenced the relationship we have with this Test team whatsoever.' A decision on McCullum's future may also depend on the T20 World Cup starting on 7 February in India and Sri Lanka.
