Following England’s loss in the Ranchi Test, and subsequently the series, head coach Brendon McCullum conceded that his team had failed to capitalise on crucial moments throughout the four games. Despite this setback, the former New Zealand skipper expressed optimism about England’s Test cricket future.
“We’re disappointed with the series loss, but we’re also proud of the team’s efforts,” McCullum stated during a press interaction. “We’ve had our moments in this series, showing glimpses of strong performances while being outplayed in others. It’s been a competitive contest, and credit must be given to India for stepping up when the game hung in the balance.”
“We didn’t quite rise to the occasion when it mattered most, or perhaps India simply outperformed us,” McCullum admitted. “While we lost this series and fell short in the Ashes, we’ve undoubtedly become a stronger cricket team compared to 18 months ago. We now have an opportunity in the next 18 months to achieve something special, and I’m excited about it.”
In his debut Test series, Tom Hartley has been exceptional with the ball, emerging as the leading wicket-taker with 20 wickets from four Tests. Hartley’s standout performance included a remarkable seven-wicket haul in the first Test in Hyderabad, which propelled England to victory.
Hartley’s spin partners, Rehan Ahmed and Shoaib Bashir, have also contributed significantly, with Ahmed claiming 11 wickets in three games and Bashir taking eight wickets in his second appearance. Their combined efforts have outshone the more experienced Indian counterparts, surprising many observers.
“I think that’s crucial. Both Tom and Bashir have been outstanding in this series,” McCullum remarked. “When we selected them, there were doubts from others and even from us about their readiness for this level. However, they’ve proven themselves to be more than capable.”
“It would be frustrating if they hadn’t been given opportunities at the county level,” he continued. “While Counties have their own priorities, performances like theirs in this series warrant further opportunities. Hopefully, they’ll receive more chances in county cricket, and if not, then perhaps for us.”
Despite not reaching the fifty-run mark on the tour thus far, McCullum confirmed that Jonny Bairstow will play his 100th Test in Dharamshala, starting March 7.
“Jonny enjoys milestones, and he won’t shy away from this one,” McCullum said. “It’ll be an emotional moment for him, given his journey. Jonny is quite emotional, and significant milestones hold great importance for him. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with him.”