Former England fast bowler Darren Gough has expressed strong views on the current state of the England cricket team, questioning why Brendon McCullum continues as head coach after a disappointing Ashes defeat in Australia. England lost the 2025/26 Ashes series 4-1, but both McCullum and captain Ben Stokes have retained their positions ahead of the upcoming home series against New Zealand.
Speaking on The Overlap's Stick to Cricket show, Gough said McCullum was fortunate to remain in charge after such a poor result. "I think Baz McCullum is realistically very lucky to carry on as England's head coach," Gough stated. He added, "If you're not winning games, your job is going to come under scrutiny." While Gough acknowledged that he enjoys England's attacking style under McCullum, he believes the team now needs more discipline and toughness. "I like the way they play, but it needs toning down a bit. We need a bit of steel," he explained.
Gough Disappointed Over National Selector Role
Gough also opened up about missing out on the role of England's national selector. The England and Wales Cricket Board instead appointed former Australia batter Marcus North, a decision that clearly upset the former fast bowler. "I was disheartened. I'll be honest, it did hurt me," Gough admitted.
The former Yorkshire managing director believes he could have added valuable experience to England's setup and challenged the current management when needed. "I could have challenged them in the right areas. I'm mature now, I'm not like I was 10 years ago, a hothead. I've mellowed a lot, I've managed people," he said.
Experience Overlooked
Gough felt his long experience in English cricket gave him a strong chance of landing the job. "My honest opinion was, if they went down the route of someone who'd played for England, who has done all the roles in the game, I might just get this," he added.
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