From the ride to the rubble - how McCullum lost England Test job

A dramatic collapse during England’s first Test at Perth marked a turning point in Brendon McCullum’s tenure as England’s Test head coach, with the decision ultimately leaving the team without a captain or coach. The article links the unraveling to a broader sequence of disruptions, but focuses on the “shambolic” Saturday in Perth where England suffered nine wickets for 99 runs, described as potentially the most consequential batting collapse in England’s cricket history. It argues that one calm session might have changed the outcome of the first Test, and notes that aftershocks were still felt seven months later. In the aftermath of another Sunday turning point—Stokes leaving and McCullum being pushed—the team reverted to the situation from four years ago. The piece also reflects on McCullum’s early success and his emphasis on environment over technical coaching, contrasted with difficulties building a new generation of Test players.