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The ODI World Cup 2023 has not turned out well for England so far. The defending champions have suffered two losses in their first three games, including a shocking upset against Afghanistan. Questions about their chances of reaching the semi-finals have begun to circulate among fans and enthusiasts.
In the midst of this uncertainty and criticism, former New Zealand skipper and current England Test head coach Brendon McCullum has shown unwavering confidence in the English team. He has even offered valuable advice to help them get back on track for the remaining matches.
Brendon McCullum’s belief in England
In an interview with The Mirror, McCullum emphasized that it is still entirely possible for Jos Buttler‘s side to secure a spot in the knockout stage. He stressed that such unexpected setbacks are not uncommon in major tournaments and that it’s all part of the game. McCullum acknowledged that the team’s start might not have been what the players had hoped for but assured fans that there is plenty of time and matches left for England to catch up.
“They will get there. It is still early days, and this tournament is a slow burn, so there is plenty of time and matches for them to catch up. It is a World Cup, so there is going to be the odd upset, and that is what you want in a tournament like this. Of course, the boys would have liked to be 3 and 0, but sport doesn’t work like that, and sometimes you have to cope with challenges and then show how good you are,” said McCullum.
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McCullum’s crucial advice for Jos Buttler and Co.
McCullum also offered a crucial piece of advice to the English team, suggesting that they stick to their original attacking game plan that has brought them success in recent times. McCullum’s words of wisdom highlight the reasons behind England’s triumphs in the previous World Cups.
“One thing is for sure, there are good reasons why England has won two World Cups recently. It is the quality of the players and the manner with which they play the game that makes them a world-class side. They just need to stay true to their method and their style, which has brought them so much success and not get shaken by the odd bad day at the office,” reckoned McCullum.
McCullum’s role in the England cricket team’s recent success
It is worth mentioning that The ‘bazball’ era for England began when McCullum took over as the head coach of the English team in the Test format, with Ben Stokes replacing Joe Root as the side’s skipper. The duo of McCullum and Stokes has ever since been making waves in the longest format of cricket.
