“England knows where it wants to go as a Test team”- Brendon McCullum ahead of the India series

Although India has come to face England fully prepared and confident, England coach Brendon McCullum stated that the Three Lions side knows exactly what they need to do in the forthcoming five-test match series.

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India's new World Test Championship cycle (WTC 2025–27) will begin with the series, which is scheduled to begin on June 20.

In a recent six-match white-ball series, England destroyed the West Indies. As they get ready to play India and get ready for the Ashes later this year, their attention is now turning to the red-ball format.

“They’re an outstanding cricketing nation who will come here with high hopes, and we are looking forward to seeing them. The guys must refresh. We know where we want to get to as a Test team,” McCullum told Sky Sports Cricket.

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Brendon McCullum talks about England’s bowling woes in the pace department

In addition to fellow quick Jofra Archer missing the first Test, they will be without tearaway bowler Mark Wood, who has been out for at least the first three Tests owing to injury.

“There are some quality bowlers that are unavailable, but we have a nice, varied bowling attack with Chris Woakes, Sam Cook, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, and Josh Tongue for the high-pace element. We have Shoaib Bashir, who is growing in Test cricket every day. We know we are going to be tested against India, and they will arrive prepared,” McCullum said.

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England all-rounder Jacob Bathel has been recalled, and McCullum was all praise for the 21-year-old.

“Bethell has a good life in front of him. For a 21-year-old, he’s got real poise, and that allows him to go out there and be present and show off his flair and talent. The world is his oyster. He’s already becoming a leader in the dressing room, which is what you want,” McCullum added.

Additionally, McCullum recognized Ben Duckett and Jamie Smith as promising potential.

“Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett have reminded me of Duckett and Zak Crawley in the Test game. We know how good Duckett is, but the power that Smith possesses is amazing. These guys are fearless, and if you add the craft, then you hope you end up with a rounded player,” McCullum signed off.

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