England head coach Brendon McCullum has urged his players to be more sensible when not on the field, although he insists celebrations and socialising form part of team culture. His words come as an investigation continues into a London night club incident involving the team’s captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson.
McCullum spoke ahead of England’s second Test against New Zealand at The Oval, and acknowledged his disappointment over the situation but added that players had to be trusted to do the right thing. Take responsibility for the makeup of the environment, yes, but there is a line where a coach can’t control what an individual does.
This is going on as McCullum explained that the contemporary international cricketer lives under extreme pressure and public examination. He insists professionalism and personal freedom need to be balanced given players spend so long away from home and have the demands of elite sport on them.
Former New Zealand captain Smith, who said he was more of a “mentor” than the person’s “guardian”, insisted on following the touchline. He wants the England squad to relish its success off the pitch and form strong bonds within the group, but also understand that there is a price to pay when decisions are taken without real regard for their wider ramifications.
It revived a theme that has flared up now and then over the years regarding drinking culture within the England setup. However, McCullum has made it clear he does not want to foster an environment where players feel they cannot have fun. Rather, he wants them to grow the maturity to know how to celebrate responsibly in their country colors.
Under his stewardship, McCullum has created a more upbeat and laid back environment that has played a part in England’s gung-ho style of cricket. Nonetheless, he admitted there would be responsibility associated with freedom and the standards of conduct expected from an international athlete.
As England approaches another crucial Test, McCullum’s words are simple: win matches, work together and correct the mistakes his team has put on paper. The coach is keen to continue the positive feel within the squad while impressing on players the need to respect wearing an England shirt.
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