England white-ball coaches to step down at end of Caribbean tour

Carl Hopkinson and Richard Dawson are to leave their posts as England’s white-ball assistants ahead of the imminent arrival of Brendon McCullum as limited-overs head coach.

Hopkinson was brought into the squad in 2018 as lead on-field coach and was in charge of England’s 50-over World Cup triumph on home soil the following year, as well as the T20 equivalent in Australia in 2022.

Dawson, a former player who played seven Tests for England, joined the team ahead of T20 success two years ago, having coached the Young Lions to the Under-20 World Cup final 19 years earlier that year.

Brendon McCullum training in EnglandBrendon McCullum training in England

Brendon McCullum will become head coach of all England men’s cricket in January (John Walton/PA)

But England announced both men would step down once the Caribbean tour ends on Sunday, opening the decks for McCullum, who is expected to take control of the T20 and ODI squads in January in addition to his head coaching duties of the Test.

Rob Key, Managing Director of England Men’s Cricket, said: “Hoppo and Daws are two exceptional coaches who have played an important role in the success of our white-ball teams.

“As well as their coaching expertise with our senior teams, they have also developed young players across the age groups to help deliver the next era of our white-ball teams. England Cricket are in a better place because of them and I wish them well in the next chapter of their careers.

England have largely divided their coaching staff between Test and limited-overs cricket under Key.

However, Test wizard Marcus Trescothick has been the white-ball keeper for a home series against Australia and the ongoing white-ball trip to the West Indies, keeping the seat warm for McCullum.

Rob Key training in EnglandRob Key training in England

England have largely split their coaching staff between Test and white-ball cricket under chief executive Rob Key, right (Mike Egerton/PA)

“It has been a highlight of my career, not only being part of the England coaching staff for the last seven years, but also being involved in two historic World Cup victories, this which I will always cherish,” Hopkinson said.

Dawson added: “I have enjoyed every minute of being in the English environment and working with some of the best white ball players in the world as well as great people within the coaching team and staff. behind the scenes, from the U19s to the senior team.

“Being head coach of the England Under-19 team that reached the World Cup final was a career highlight. It was a pleasure to work with some of the best spinners in the world while developing the strength and depth of spin bowling talent from across the country.

“I look forward to seeing the white ball team continue to progress and hopefully win some more trophies.”

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