Published: Jan 09, 2026, 11:46 AM (IST)
Edited: Jan 09, 2026, 11:46 AM (IST)
In the Ashes 2025-26, Australia brutally dominated England as they defeated them by 4-1. However, England’s performance in this series was not good. However, the whole cricket world is criticizing the team’s coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes.
After this defeat, most questions are on England’s coach Brendon McCullum and their coaching technique and skills. Under McCullum, the England team changed their playing method and moved forward towards an attacking batting approach, which became the major factor behind constant poor performances and defeats.
Former England player and one of the greatest openers of all time. Geoffrey Boycott drops a bold statement on England team and coach Brendon McCullum after the loss against Australia in the Ashes 2025-26. “Ever since Stokes and McCullum took charge of the Test team, England has not won a single series against India or Australia. They have only won against New Zealand, Pakistan, and the West Indies.”
Former England opener also stated that, Brendon McCullum, Rob Key and Ben Stokes lied for three years. However, McCullum’s mindset is to do his job and play without a care in the world. No one reprimands him, there’s no accountability, and no one gets dropped from the team, so he just keeps doing the same stupid things. If the coach and captain have no problem, why should the players change, adapt, or improve? People are fed up with this kind of play.
Boycott said that despite the defeat, batsman McCullum has shown no signs of changing his coaching methods. He doesn’t know when to stop or change his routine. This free rein to do whatever he wants without any consequences is holding England back. We have some very talented cricketers, but their skills are not being utilized. To reach the next level, we need a different discipline in the way our players prepare and think. The board should bring in former Ashes winners to sit with the coach and captain. We want England to win.
Both Stokes and McCullum have expressed their desire to remain as captain and coach. England’s next series is against New Zealand in June. Therefore, the England and Wales Cricket Board has plenty of time to review.
