England is going to be tested against ‘well-prepared’ India, says coach McCullum

England head coach Brendon McCullum believes his team will be tested against a strong Indian side in the upcoming five-match Test series starting June 20. However, he is confident the players are clear about the direction they want to take in red-ball cricket.

McCullum said England is looking forward to the challenge from India as both teams begin a new World Test Championship cycle.

“They’re an outstanding cricketing nation, who will come here with high hopes, and we are looking forward to seeing them,” he told Sky Sports Cricket.

“It’s important the guys refresh. We know where we want to get to as a Test team.”

The hosts will be without injured pacer Mark Wood for at least the first three Tests, while Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson are also set to miss the opener. Despite the setbacks, McCullum expressed confidence in England’s bowling depth.

“There are some quality bowlers that are unavailable, but we have a nice, varied bowling attack with Chris Woakes, Sam Cook, Brydon Carse, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue for the high-pace element,” he said.

“We have Shoaib Bashir, who is growing in Test cricket every day. We know we are going to be tested against India, and they will arrive prepared.”

McCullum also reserved special praise for 21-year-old Jacob Bethell, describing him as an emerging leader in the dressing room.

Also read | India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Karun Nair: “Comebacks are never easy”

“Bethell has a good life in front of him. For a 21-year-old, he’s got a real poise, and that allows him to go out there and be present and show off his flair and talent,” McCullum said.

“The world is his oyster. He’s already becoming a leader in the dressing room which is what you want,” he added.

He also highlighted Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett as players to watch.

“Jamie Smith and Ben Duckett have reminded me of Duckett and Zak Crawley in the Test game. We know how good Duckett is, but the power that Smith possesses is amazing.

“These guys are fearless, and if you add the craft, then you hope you end up with a rounded player.”