Next 12 to 14 months will define the Stokes-McCullum era: Alastair Cook

Alastair Cook. (Photo Sourcr: X(Twitter)

England have been a dominating Test side since Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes took over in 2022. They have defeated South Africa, New Zealand, and Pakistan in the Test series but a victory over Australia and India is still pending. Earlier in the year, the Rohit Sharma-led side defeated England 4-1 in the five-match Test series while Ashes 2023 finished on level terms but the Pat Cummins-led side managed to retain the urn.

Overall, England have played 33 matches under McCullum and won 20 of them. Former cricketer Alastair Cook reminded about the track record of the England team but added that the next 12-14 months will be vital for the team, especially as they will host India for a five-match series and later, tour Down Under. Cook mentioned that Stokes can cement his legacy only by winning a real marquee series, especially against Australia, a team they haven’t won against since 2015.

“Since Ben and Brendon took over, there have been 100 games of Test cricket played and England are top of that table by winning 62 per cent of their matches. Bazball has not just appeared overnight – it has brought England success over a prolonged period – but I do believe the next 12 to 14 months will define the Stokes-McCullum era,” Cook was quoted by Mirror.

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“I love watching their team play, and they have changed the way people think about Test cricket, which is an amazing feat in itself. Ultimately, however, the only thing missing from their achievements is a real marquee series win – and for us in England, the pinnacle is beating Australia,” he further added.

We are now seeing the evolution of Bazball 2.0: Cook

England have evolved their Bazball formula and are now taking time to settle down as well if the game needs that. It was seen in the series against India and Pakistan and Cook believes it to be Bazball 2.0. Speaking on the same, Cook said that the next 12-14 will be a good time for the England cricketers to shine and make a mark in international cricket.

“I think we are now seeing the evolution of Bazball 2.0 where they have found their medium. For this group of players, this series in New Zealand, followed by five Tests against India next summer and five in Australia, is their moment to shine. The next year is going to be a great time to be an England cricketer and a great time for them to leave their mark on the game,” the 39-year-old added.