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England’s disastrous Champions Trophy 2025 campaign ended in humiliation on Wednesday (February 26) as the defending champions crashed out of the tournament following an eight-run defeat to Afghanistan. The loss, which followed a 3-0 whitewash in India earlier this year, has ignited a firestorm of criticism from UK media, with called for captain Jos Buttler and head coach Brendon McCullum to step down immediately.
Media backlash and leadership under fire
The backlash was swift and scathing. The Mail led the charge with an op-ed titled “Buttler Must Go Now… The Whiff of Self-Delusion Has Become Too Much,” while the BBC argued “Replacing Buttler the Sensible Thing to Do.” Former England skipper Nasser Hussain amplified the pressure, telling Sky Sports, “It’s time for Jos to resign and for England to move on.”
Buttler, who hinted at stepping down post-match, bore the brunt of criticism for England’s timid approach. The team’s record of nine losses in 10 matches since January 2024 – including a winless streak in Asia – has raised questions about his tactical acumen and leadership.
McCullum’s ‘Bazball’ strategy crumbles
McCullum, who took over as white-ball coach in January after Matthew Mott’s dismissal, faced equal scrutiny. The I Paper slammed his tenure with “Brendon McCullum’s Strength as England Coach Has Become a Weakness,” while The Cricketer blasted the team’s “hubristic philosophy” in a piece titled “Those Behind England’s Bazball Need a Reality Check.” Wisden delivered a damning assessment: “Familiar Failings Make One Thing Clear: England Have Gone Backwards Under McCullum.”
Also READ: Jos Buttler reflects on England’s early exit from ICC Champions Trophy 2025
What next for England?
With the T20 World Cup looming in 2026, the ECB faces tough decisions. Buttler’s future as captain appears untenable, while McCullum’s aggressive “Bazball” tactics – once hailed as revolutionary – now face existential doubts. As fans and experts demand accountability, England’s cricketing hierarchy must choose between continuity and a radical reboot.
