New DelhiBrendon McCullum has vehemently opposed continued scrutiny of England's handling of Harry Brook's nightclub incident, claiming that the issue was appropriately resolved behind closed doors and that further public discussion is pointless.
Speaking following a commanding T20 series victory over Sri Lanka, the England head coach made it apparent that he wanted to stay in charge for the forthcoming Test summer. McCullum reaffirmed his support for Brook as England's white-ball captain, characterizing him as a significant player who continues to grow off the field.
Brook was punched by a nightclub bouncer during England's stay in Wellington. Josh Tongue and Jacob Bethell were later found to have been present as well, and the ECB fined them for their involvement. McCullum stated that those involved were extremely embarrassed and acknowledged that he learned of the situation during the ODI played the next day.
"I don't think we have to share all of those results with the media every time something comes up. Others will think differently. We were all involved in the internal ECB process. The boys knew exactly how we felt about it, but now it's our responsibility to help them," McCullum stated, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
He continued, "And, to be honest, I find it pretty annoying that we keep talking about it so much because these are young men who are under a lot of pressure and they've put their hand up for something for which they've been disciplined, and it doesn't help anyone to pile on top of them."
Brook hoped it had been resolved internally: McCullumMcCullum defended Brook's leadership in the face of criticism for how he handled the fallout, arguing that trust within the team encouraged players to be honest. According to McCullum, Brook's initial claim that he was by himself on the night out was driven more by team loyalty than dishonesty.
See Also
When it was announced that it would be featured in the media, I believe he was eager to raise his hand. Like all of us, he hoped that it had been handled internally. Although he is a young man and a strong leader, I am aware that some will argue that he lacks intelligence.
"I couldn't be more opposed to that. We just need to continue taking care of him because he is still young, McCullum continued. "He wears his intelligence lightly and is a very strong leader, and they also play for him in their dressing room."