Ashes calamity has trashed McCullum’s credibility. It’s time to call on Alec Stewart

January 11, 2026

TL;DR

England was outplayed in the basics during the Ashes series.
High expectations for the England squad were not met, leading to disappointment.
The management group, including Rob Key, Brendon McCullum, and Ben Stokes, is questioned for their role in the team's preparation.
Ben Stokes is seen as the clear leader, but the roles of McCullum and Key are less clear.
The article criticizes the lack of thorough planning and preparation.
There's a suggestion that Brendon McCullum should reconsider his approach and suitability after the T20 World Cup.
McCullum's 'play this way or you won't play' rhetoric is contrasted with England's best performances, which did not follow this method.
The article highlights that England's best performers, like Joe Root and Jacob Bethell, succeeded by playing good cricket shots and respecting the ball, not by adhering to a rigid style.
Josh Tongue's success is attributed to skill rather than high pace.
The article questions McCullum's success in improving players and fostering a positive culture.
Concerns are raised about the appointment of coaches based on connections rather than qualifications and the erosion of specialist coaches.
The author believes England has not found the ideal environment and suggests Alec Stewart as a candidate to lead the team.
England's best performers have seemingly gone against the management's desired style.

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