McCullum Rejects Rift Claims, Says Stokes Remains Key Ally Ahead Of Decider
England head coach Brendon McCullum has dismissed speculation of a strained relationship with captain Ben Stokes, insisting the pair remain close as England prepare for the series-deciding third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.
Rumours of a fallout resurfaced after Stokes missed the second Test at The Oval, where England were thrashed by 253 runs, allowing New Zealand to draw level at 1-1 in the three-match series.
Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson were unavailable for that match after being suspended for breaching the team’s midnight curfew following England’s win in the first Test at Lord’s. Their absence sparked fresh scrutiny of England’s leadership group, but McCullum has rejected suggestions of any tension.
Speaking before the third Test, McCullum revealed he discussed the rumours directly with Stokes upon his return to the squad. “I asked him if he knew where all this talk about our relationship had come from. He said he had no idea,” McCullum told reporters. “As far as I’m concerned, Ben is a good friend.”
McCullum stressed that the challenges of recent years have only strengthened their working relationship. “We’ve been through plenty together in leadership positions. Ultimately, we both want the same thing — what’s best for English cricket,” he said.
The former New Zealand captain has partnered with Stokes since taking charge of England’s Test side in 2022, overseeing a dramatic shift in the team’s approach and results in red-ball cricket. While questions over their relationship have surfaced before, particularly during difficult periods such as the Ashes, McCullum insisted there is no substance to the latest claims.
“It’s been a privilege to work so closely with Ben over the last four years. We’ve shared some great moments and built a strong partnership. Ben and I are tight, and that hasn’t changed,” he added.
England Recall Stokes, Atkinson For Series Finale
England have made four changes to their XI for the third and final Test, bringing back Stokes, Atkinson, spinner Shoaib Bashir and wicketkeeper Jamie Smith. Smith returns after missing the previous Test on paternity leave, while Stokes and Atkinson are available again following their suspensions.
The hosts have largely reverted to the side that won the opening Test at Lord’s. Although Ollie Robinson has recovered from the knee injury that ruled him out of the second Test, England have opted to retain Jofra Archer in the pace attack.
James Rew, Jordan Cox, Matthew Fisher and Sonny Baker have all been omitted from the squad as England look to clinch the series.
England XI: Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Ben Stokes (captain), Gus Atkinson, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.
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