T20 World Cup: Southee backs McCullum to cope with England pressure
Fast bowling consultant Tim Southee insists England head coach Brendon McCullum remains unfazed by scrutiny as the team approaches the business end of the T20 World Cup.
McCullum entered the tournament under significant pressure following a heavy 4-1 Ashes defeat.
However, England have silenced some critics by securing a semi-final spot with a match to spare.
Southee, a long-time friend and former team-mate of McCullum, believes the coach is showing no signs of strain.
Consistency key for ‘Baz’
The pair played together 170 times for New Zealand before reuniting in England’s backroom staff last May.
Southee maintains that the 42-year-old’s demeanour has not shifted despite recent outside noise.
“Baz is just Baz. I have known him, played a lot with him and get on with him very well.”
Tim Southee, England fast bowling consultant
Southee praised the former batter’s steadfast approach to leadership.
“But one thing with Brendon is he is the most consistent guy I have ever come across. Nothing really changes from him. He believes in what he believes in.”
According to the bowling coach, McCullum’s desire for team success remains his sole focus.
“He’s been very consistent with his behaviours and it’s been no different here. He just wants guys to do well, he wants the team to do well and that hasn’t changed since he was a player and now as a coach.”
Southee’s ‘disappointing’ Ashes absence
Southee faced his own questions earlier this year regarding a scheduling conflict during the Test series.
The 37-year-old departed after the first Test to fulfil a playing commitment in the United Arab Emirates ILT20 league.
The tournament dates were brought forward to early December, necessitating his exit.
“It was disappointing, I’d have loved to have been part of all five [Tests].”
Despite the clash, Southee relished the chance to work with the Test side.
“Being a Kiwi kid, having the opportunity to work with the England side during an Ashes series was awesome. It’s just a shame that the dates were changed for fulfilling a two-year contract with the ILT20.”
Archer finding top gear
England can seal top spot in their Super 8 group by beating New Zealand at Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium on Friday.
Facing his former nation will be a “strange” experience for Southee, who represented the Kiwis 394 times.
However, his focus remains on the developing threat of Jofra Archer.
The fast bowler has recovered from a slow start to take eight wickets in his last four games.
Archer has been consistently clocking speeds exceeding 90mph, troubling batters with his raw pace.
“The good sign is that we’ve seen over the last few games he looks like he’s getting better and better so that bodes well for the next few games.”
Southee believes the paceman is peaking at exactly the right moment for England’s campaign.
“He’s obviously a class bowler.”