Brook, who currently captains England in ODIs and T20Is, served as Stokes’ deputy during McCullum’s tenure as Test coach. However, when Stokes missed the second Test against New Zealand due to suspension, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) handed the captaincy to Joe Root instead of Brook.
Following England’s series defeat to New Zealand and Stokes’ retirement from Test cricket, the ECB chose to reappoint Root as Test captain, delaying Brook’s elevation to the role. McCullum, however, believes it is only a matter of time before the 27-year-old takes charge of the red-ball side.
Speaking to Sky Sports, McCullum praised Brook’s leadership qualities and backed him to become a future Test captain.
“Everyone knows the affection that I have for Harry. He’s a wonderful player and he’s doing a fine job as white-ball leader. I think his time will come in the Test job.”
McCullum added that England will continue to nurture Brook’s leadership skills before he eventually takes on a bigger responsibility.
“I’m looking forward to working with him and hopefully growing and developing him into the leader that he can become. At some stage in the future, he will have a very important role in that capacity. But for now, Joe will do an amazing job.”
Although McCullum has stepped away from England’s Test setup after four successful years, he remains in charge of the white-ball teams. The ECB has appointed former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming as England’s new Test head coach.
McCullum expressed complete confidence in his long-time friend and former teammate, describing Fleming as the ideal person to lead England’s Test side.
“I had a great time in my four years but now it’s going in a different direction. I think Flem will be excellent. He’s a little bit like me, but better. He’ll do a great job, and the ECB have done incredibly well to get someone like him.”
The former New Zealand captain also revealed that he and Fleming remain in regular contact and share the same vision for England cricket.
England’s next Test assignment is a home series against Pakistan, where Marcus Trescothick will continue as interim coach. Stephen Fleming is scheduled to officially begin his tenure as England’s Test head coach ahead of the team’s tour of South Africa in December 2026.
