England Test team coach Brendon McCullum has defended James Anderson’s decision to skip the start of England’s tour of Pakistan in order to participate in the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, a pro-am golf tournament in Scotland. Anderson, who now serves as England’s bowling coach, missed the team’s preparatory camp ahead of the first Test in Multan. However, McCullum expressed no concerns, emphasizing that Anderson remained in constant contact with the players through social media, guiding them using a method former captain Michael Atherton referred to as “coaching by WhatsApp.”
Anderson’s Transition and McCullum’s Support
Anderson, who retired from Test cricket earlier this year, has taken up a part-time role as England’s bowling consultant.
While his absence sparked some debate, McCullum was quick to remind critics of Anderson’s contributions to England cricket.
“Two months ago, people questioned his appointment, and now we’re missing him. That shows the positive impact Anderson has made in his short stint as a coach,” McCullum said.
McCullum also defended the concept of balancing professional and personal life in the intense international cricket calendar.
He added that Anderson’s decision to take time off for golf was part of his adjustment to the new role and that no one would have questioned it if he were spending time with his family.
Balancing Work and Leisure in Modern Cricket
McCullum emphasised the importance of relaxation and unwinding amidst the demands of international cricket.
“The challenges and demands of international cricket mean you need to find ways to enjoy yourself as well. If Anderson chooses to relax by playing golf, so be it,” McCullum said.
Meanwhile, Pakistan capitalized on England’s early struggles on the field, with openers Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood both scoring centuries on the first day of the Test.
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