England Coach McCullum Eases Drinking Rules Following Dominant T20 Series Victory Over India

Harry Brook was instrumental in England’s 4‑0 series triumph over India•Getty Images

McCullum noted on Sunday that Brook, England’s white‑ball captain and the leading candidate to succeed Ben Stokes as Test skipper, has demonstrated “immense” development since that incident, and that their relationship has reached a new level in recent months.

“He may not have fully grasped the stature he holds within the game and English cricket, along with the accompanying responsibilities,” McCullum said, adding: “Sometimes a misstep like this can become a turning point. He acknowledged his substantial growth since then and sees a bright future ahead as a leader in English cricket.”

When asked about Brook’s suitability to captain England across all three formats, McCullum declined to comment, saying he was “hesitant” to divert attention from the T20 side’s achievement. However, he lauded Brook’s captaincy against India and likened their bond to a father‑son relationship.

“I regard him not just as a good friend but almost as another son,” McCullum continued. “He hasn’t always got everything right and has made off‑field errors, yet the progress we’ve witnessed in him over the past year has been remarkable.”

“He is highly respected in the dressing room as a leader, tactician, and player, and his development has been extraordinary. I truly enjoy working with him; we bring out the best in each other, and I am confident that will continue.”

McCullum also commended the team’s focus during the T20Is, which followed a difficult stretch on and off the field that culminated in a 2‑1 Test series loss to New Zealand and Stokes’ retirement. “Obviously the Test matches didn’t go as we hoped and things were noisy,” he observed.

“Securing a 4‑0 whitewash is immensely gratifying; a week can feel like an eternity in sport. Circumstances shift rapidly, so the key is to detach emotion when needed while staying focused on the task. I thought the boys handled that exceptionally well.”

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