Brendon McCullum has been stood down as England's Test coach.

England lost emphatically to New Zealand to kickstart their Test summer, amid chaotic events off the field.

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were suspended for the second Test following a nightclub altercation.

Captain Stokes then confirmed his international retirement during the third Test, which England lost heavily at Trent Bridge.

McCullum then switched focus to a T20I series against India, which England won 4-0, but the New Zealander has now been relieved of his duties for the longest format, albeit he will remain white-ball coach.

"I've absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together," said McCullum, who took charge of the Test team in 2022.

"There've been some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that's all part of taking on a challenge like this.

Brendon McCullum will stand down as England Men’s Test Head Coach but continue to lead the England Men’s White Ball teams.

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— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 12, 2026

"It's been a privilege and an honour, and I'm grateful. Grateful to the players, the staff and the fans who supported us on the journey.

"I'm gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision. My focus now is on giving everything I've got to the white ball teams and helping England keep moving forward.

"I wish the Test team nothing but success. There's a hell of a lot of talent in that dressing room and they're a special bunch of lads. I'll always be backing the boys, with a smile on my face, and hoping they keep taking the game on. I know they'll continue to make people proud."

McCullum and Stokes injected fresh life into England's Test team, with their swashbuckling approach soon dubbed "Bazball".

However, England have lost seven of their last nine Tests, with that run including the 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia.

Harry Brook is expected to take over as Test captain, though England now need to appoint a new coach prior to their next series, against Pakistan, starting August 19.