Playing Pakistan in Home Conditions Is Never Easy, Says England Coach Brendon McCullum

RAWALPINDI – England cricket team head coach Brendon McCullum has said that taking on Pakistan in their own conditions is a difficult challenge, describing the hosts as a strong side against whom England will need to adopt an aggressive approach.

Speaking at a press conference in Rawalpindi on Monday ahead of England’s participation in the ongoing tri-nation One Day International series, McCullum said he was delighted to be back in Pakistan, noting that he had visited the country several times over the past few years.

The former New Zealand captain said he had always had the opportunity to play excellent cricket in Pakistan, praising the people of the country as extremely hospitable and describing the atmosphere as outstanding.

McCullum described both Pakistan and Sri Lanka, England’s opponents in the tri-series, as formidable rivals. He acknowledged, however, that Pakistan would enjoy the advantage of playing on home grounds and in familiar conditions.

The England coach said that in a tri-series, teams must adapt their strategy according to the circumstances, adding that his side would need to adjust to changing situations during the match against Pakistan. He noted that playing Sri Lanka was likewise no easy task, and stressed that it was the responsibility of professional cricketers to strive for victory in every situation.

Pakistan began the tri-series on a winning note, defeating Sri Lanka in the opening match after setting a target of 306 runs and bowling the visitors out for 268. The upcoming match between Pakistan and England has been dedicated to breast cancer awareness, with the Pakistan team set to wear a specially designed pink kit for the occasion.