Brendon McCullum has strongly defended England’s training regimen after criticism arose regarding the team’s work ethic following their 3-0 one-day international series defeat to India. Concerns were raised during commentary, with suggestions that England had conducted minimal practice sessions during the tour. However, McCullum refuted these claims, insisting that his squad had undertaken significant training despite managing injuries and a tight schedule.
Questions about England’s preparation surfaced when it was noted that they had not held training sessions between the second and third ODIs. Commentators speculated that the team had only practiced once during the entire trip, but McCullum dismissed this as false. He emphasized that England had trained extensively during the preceding Twenty20 series and before the opening ODI. The decision to forgo training ahead of the last two matches was based on injury concerns and the need to ensure players remained fit.
“We’ve done lots of training,” McCullum asserted. “We had injuries in the camp, so we had to back guys off a little to make sure we had a fit team. We have three training sessions scheduled in Pakistan as well. The players have already played a lot of cricket, and keeping them fresh is just as important, especially when dealing with injuries.”
One of the key concerns for England ahead of the Champions Trophy is Ben Duckett’s fitness. The opener appeared to struggle with a groin issue during the final ODI, though he still managed to contribute with a quickfire 34 off 22 balls. He finished the series as England’s top scorer, with his aggressive starts alongside Phil Salt being one of the team’s few bright spots. A scan will determine the extent of Duckett’s injury, with a decision pending on his availability. England have already lost one left-handed batter from their squad, as Jacob Bethell’s hamstring injury led to the inclusion of Tom Banton.
Despite these setbacks, McCullum offered positive news regarding other injured players. Jamie Smith and Jamie Overton are expected to recover in time for England’s first Champions Trophy match against Australia on February 22. Jofra Archer, who has been dealing with a hand injury, is also likely to be available. Meanwhile, the team is optimistic about Brydon Carse’s recovery from a toe issue, with hopes that he will be fit for the tournament opener.
England’s recent ODI form has been concerning, with four consecutive series defeats and 16 losses in their last 23 matches. However, McCullum remains confident in his squad’s ability to perform in the Champions Trophy. He believes that, if England can find their rhythm, they are capable of competing with any team, especially given the conditions in Pakistan.
“The key is to stay united as a group and keep the morale high,” McCullum emphasized. “If we do that, we give ourselves the best chance to succeed. If we lose that belief, then we have no chance. There’s no alternative we have to trust in our ability, and I certainly do.”
