ENG vs NZ: He Is A Leader That The Guys Want To Follow - Brendon McCullum On England's Test Captain Ben Stokes

The captain of England’s Test squad, Ben Stokes, received great accolades from head coach Brendon McCullum after the team’s remarkable 3-0 series victory against New Zealand. 

According to McCullum, Stokes is the kind of leader that English players desire to follow, who was speaking on Sky Sports. He emphasised how the all-around player is very clear in his communication and adheres to his ideas no matter what the circumstance. 

Ben Stoke’s Ability To Control The Field Has Been Fantastic: Brendon McCullum

The cricketer-turned-coach stated that on the fourth day of the Headingly Test, when the required rate was above seven runs per over, Ben Stokes wanted England to chase down New Zealand’s total. McCullum even said that the new Test captain had more aggressiveness than he does.

The former Kiwi captain stated: 

“We needed around 297 in 40 overs yesterday and Ben Stokes walked up to me and said we are going to try and knock it out today itself. He’s been absolutely outstanding and is clearly a leader that the guys want to follow.

He’s very consistent with his messaging no matter how much is on the line. His ability to control the field has been fantastic.” 

England dominated New Zealand in the series, taking all three games in a convincing fashion. 

Both Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum have had outstanding starts to their respective tours, and a strong showing against India in the forthcoming one-off Test might do wonders for their self-confidence. 

Squad Members Had Tremendous Trust In The New Leadership Team: Brendon McCullum

The players, according to McCullum, have formed strong bonds with one another and have a tremendous sense of camaraderie. He clarified that despite certain difficulties during the transition period, the team members had tremendous trust in the new leadership team. 

McCullum added: “It’s been an incredible few weeks trying to blend the guys under Stokes’ leadership. It had some challenges, but the guys really bought into it. I am just delighted with the application and the camaraderie that sits within the dressing room in such a short period of time.” 

Joe Root, a former Test captain, was also recognised by McCullum for his role in the team’s triumph. He believed that the star hitter led the team through a challenging time and yet performed admirably. He believed that Root had a significant impact on how well things were going for Stokes.

McCullum said: “It is worth mentioning that Joe Root did a fantastic job with this England side leading into it. He did hold the fort under pretty tough circumstances.

It gave some sort of platform as it was a difficult position for someone like Ben Stokes to come in and lead them the way that he has done. It’s been a really cool ride and it’s no easy feat to beat New Zealand.” 

On July 1, the fifth Test, which has been postponed, between England and India is set to begin at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The game is crucial for the British team since India leads the five-match series 2-1. 

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