Stokes backs McCullum to stay on as ECB begins review into Ashes tour

Ben Stokes has backed Brendon McCullum’s continuation as head coach despite England’s 4-1 Ashes thrashing in Australia.

- Ali Martin Sydney Cricket Ground

McCullum, in turn, has accepted the need for improvement but will push back if he is told what to do.“If I’m asked my opinion he’ll be getting my full support and backing,” Stokes said after England’s five-wicket defeat. “I absolutely love working with Baz. He’s a great man and he’s a very, very, very good coach. There’s more that goes on behind the scenes than he’ll ever give away or let out. So, yeah, he’s got my full support.”

Losing Ashes tours have traditionally led to bloodletting in the captaincy, coaching and administrative tiers. Stokes looks by far the most secure, and he confirmed that, despite injury and diminishing returns with the bat, he has no intention of leaving his post.

He said: “I am definitely keen as anything to carry on. I love having a challenge thrown at me and at the moment, the challenge is getting the team back to where we once were in terms of the performances that we were delivering.”