Shastri or Dravid? England’s Test coach decision said to be near after McCullum exit

21 Jul 2026, 07:36 pm IST|
Shastri or Dravid? England’s Test coach decision said to be near after McCullum exit
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Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid have emerged as the leading names in the race for England’s next Test coach, with reports indicating the appointment is almost finalised. Brendon McCullum recently stepped down as England's Test coach.

The departure of McCullum has created a vacancy atop England’s Test programme, and attention has turned to two high-profile candidates. Both Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid are being discussed in connection with the role. The situation has generated focused interest but, as presented, no definitive appointment has been publicly confirmed.

Ravi Shastri’s name features prominently among those linked to the position. Rahul Dravid also appears as a principal contender in discussions about who will take charge next. The suggestion that the selection process is nearing its conclusion is central to current coverage.

The context for these developments centers on England needing to replace McCullum in the Test-coaching role. The two candidates identified span significant international coaching experience. At this stage, reporting concentrates on the narrow list rather than a broad field of applicants.

Coverage to date highlights that a decision is described as nearly made between the two former international figures. The focus remains specifically on Ravi Shastri and Rahul Dravid as the prospective successor. No official announcement has been recorded within the information supplied.

The matter of England’s Test coach succession is therefore framed around those two names following McCullum’s resignation. The available details point to an imminent resolution, centered on Shastri or Dravid. Further confirmation would depend on an official statement regarding the appointment.

EnglandRavi ShastriRahul DravidBrendon McCullum