‘Would love to carry on’ - Brendon McCullum expresses desire to remain England head coach after T20 World Cup exit

England head coach Brendon McCullum expressed his desire to continue in his role despite England’s campaign ending in the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2026. Following a nail-biting defeat against India at the Wankhede Stadium, the former New Zealand skipper said he would “love to carry on” as head coach.

McCullum admitted that the past few months had been challenging for the side, both on and off the field, especially after their disappointing performance in the The Ashes 2025-26. However, he believes those experiences could ultimately strengthen the team. Despite the narrow semifinal loss, McCullum said he was incredibly proud of the team’s fight during the game.

England pushed India deep into the contest while chasing a daunting 254, largely thanks to a brilliant century from Jacob Bethell. McCullum also credited captain Harry Brook for shaping the team’s identity in white-ball cricket since taking charge last year.  

“Yeah, it's been busy, hasn't it? There's been a bit going on across different formats, but I think the white-ball side has been exceptional in the post-Ashes period. We've played some good cricket, and it's got a real identity about it as well under Brookie's captaincy,” McCullum was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Although McCullum is contracted as England’s all-format head coach until the end of 2027, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had earlier announced a thorough review of the men’s teams in January. With England’s international calendar now entering a short break before the upcoming home Test series against New Zealand in June, the review will take place sooner rather than later.

Despite starting strong as coach, his credentials took a hit with his side failing to win against India and Australia, both home and away. Reflecting on his tenure so far, McCullum reiterated his passion and willingness to continue leading the side forward.

“Look, I love the job. I think it's a great job. It doesn't come without its challenges, of course, but that's the nature of it. I feel like we've achieved some really cool things over the last few years, but there's still so much to achieve with the side across all formats. And I would love to carry on.

"We'll see what unfolds over the next little while. For now, after being on the road for a fair bit of time, it's a matter of getting home and hopefully watching some fast horses and playing some shocking golf, and it's taking a bit of time to reflect,” he concluded.

It was a good campaign for the English side, winning six out of their eight matches in the T20 World Cup 2026. Despite the loss, the McCullum-coached side showed great courage at the Wankhede Stadium on March 5.