Ravi Ashwin eyed as McCullum's replacement [Source: AFP]Ravichandran Ashwin is reportedly in consideration to become the next head coach of the England Test team. The report also indicates that the legendary Indian all-rounder has already been in talks with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) regarding the matter for the past few days.It is worth noting that earlier on Sunday, July 12, former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum was sacked as England’s Test coach. McCullum, however, will continue to remain the head coach of England’s white-ball sides. Ravichandran Ashwin in line to replace Brendon McCullum after meetings in USARavichandran Ashwin recently travelled to the USA to play the MLC 2026 season for the San Francisco Unicorns franchise. However, the cricketer was ruled out of the tournament after playing just one match owing to an injury, prompting the franchise to replace him with Peter Siddle instead. Also Read- R Ashwin Hilariously Imitates Sanju Samson To Roast BCCI SelectorsIt now appears that Ashwin also had some meetings with ECB sources during his USA visit, at least as per several circulating reports. The 39-year-old is likely being eyed by the ECB to become the next head coach of the England Test side. Does Ravi Ashwin hold any coaching experience?While the ECB is reportedly eyeing Ravichandran Ashwin for a potential coaching gig in Test cricket, the legendary all-rounder himself has held little-to-no coaching experience during his competitive career.The cricketer, however, was recently appointed as the mentor of Ireland-based Dublin Guardians franchise for the upcoming European T20 Premier League (ETPL) 2026 season. The senior pro is also set to serve the franchise as its captain. Moreover, Ravichandran Ashwin has occasionally mentored aspiring young cricketers at his cricket academy in Chennai. Renowned for his exceptional cricketing acumen, Ashwin is also widely considered one of the game’s most tactically astute minds. His insights have also found a wider audience through his YouTube channel.Why was Brendon McCullum removed as England Test coach?On Sunday, July 12, the ECB confirmed on its official website and social media handles that Brendon McCullum will no longer be working with England’s Test team going ahead. While the board did not specify any particular reason, one can assume that England’s recent Ashes drubbing in Australia and a 1-2 loss to New Zealand at home played a significant role in the decision. Brendon McCullum’s record as England Test coachUnder the guidance of coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, the England cricket team formulated a revolutionary ‘BazBall’ approach. First appointed as coach back in mid-2022, McCullum’s coaching tenure began with the Englishmen pulling off some audacious run chases against New Zealand and India.The team also registered a historic whitewash in Pakistan. However, England’s performance often found to come up short while playing matches in India and Australia. Their latest 1-4 loss in Australia may have prompted the ECB to fast-track England’s Test future. With McCullum’s tenure now over, all eyes will be on whether the ECB turns to Ravichandran Ashwin to usher in a new era for England's Test side.Also Read- Rohit Sharma Not Alone! Indian Players On Make Or Break For 2027 World Cup In England ODIs
