'I'd like England team to improve on showing some humility,' says Brendon McCullum

Brendon McCullum, Ben Stokes (Pic: File Pic)

England head coach Brendon McCullum feels that the players have lacked humility, and he would like to see them win back the respect from fans ahead of the five-match Test series against India.

"The ability these guys have to be able to play on the biggest stage, under the brightest lights and the pressure that takes is one thing, but also the ability to be humble and show some humility and not feel out of touch with the general population is something I'd like to see us improve on," said McCullum to the British media.

"It's not just about what you do on the cricket field. It's how you carry yourself. It's how you interact with the public. It's the messaging that you give," he added.

England players have found themselves facing criticism for their casual approach towards on-field failures. Previously, they faced criticism from legendary England batsman Kevin Pietersen for playing golf instead of practising during the India tour before the Champions Trophy.

England are playing a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge before next month's marquee series at home against India and the away Ashes rubber in Australia.

Later, the side will lock horns with India for a five-match Test series, starting from June 20.

Further speaking, the 43-year-old said that he wants fans to be proud of his team.

"We want them along for the ride, particularly in the next few series, which could be quite amazing.

"We want people to look back and say, 'Crikey, that team in the mid-2020s was a hell of a team that we loved following, and we felt as if we were a part of that journey they went on,'" said the former New Zealand cricketer.

Since coaching the English team from 2022, Brendon McCullum has made the players adapt to a different approach, famously named 'Bazball'.

The move paid dividends initially, as from one win in 17 Tests prior to McCullum's era, England emerged victorious in 10 of their next 11 matches.

Currently, England is placed second in the world rankings. But the side has also delivered poor performances, which also includes the loss of the Champions Trophy 2025.

(With PTI Inputs)