Brendon McCullum has stepped down as England's Test head coach, a role he took on in 2022. Under his guidance, the team experienced an initial surge in form, known as 'Bazball,' winning 11 of his first 13 matches. However, recent results have seen a decline, with eight losses in the last 12 Tests, including series defeats to New Zealand and Australia.

McCullum will continue to lead England's white-ball teams, a position he began in early 2025. He has guided the T20 side to the top of the international rankings and reached the semi-finals of the recent T20 World Cup. His contract for the white-ball sides extends until the 2027 50-over World Cup.

ECB chief executive Richard Gould stated the decision was made to "make a change" as England prepares for the upcoming home Ashes series. The departure creates a vacancy for both the Test coach and potentially the Test captain, following Ben Stokes' retirement from international cricket. McCullum expressed his pride in the Test team's achievements but respects the decision, shifting his full focus to the white-ball formats.