Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes have established a "crystal clear" direction after their Ashes differences. The England coach and captain resolved messaging divergences during their 4-1 drubbing in Australia, with McCullum confirming they respect each other despite occasional disagreements on approach.

Stokes, who turns 35 during the first Test, may drop from No. 6 to No. 7 in the batting order after managing just 184 runs at below 20 average in the Ashes. McCullum expressed confidence the all-rounder can "rediscover the absolute brilliance" that made him a match-winner across his career.

New opener Emilio Gay will replace struggling Zak Crawley for the New Zealand series starting June 4 at Lord's. The Durham batsman averages nearly 40 in first-class cricket with three centuries this season. McCullum praised Gay's "nice all-round game" but acknowledged the challenge of stepping up in Test cricket under pressure.