Brendon McCullum answers candidly in his last interaction as KKR head coach

Kolkata Knight Riders’ campaign in IPL 2022 has come to an end and so has Brendon McCullum’s association with the franchise. As the former New Zealand captain has taken over as England’s new Test coach, he won’t be able to serve KKR from next season onwards. The Shreyas Iyer-led side wasn’t able to give their head coach a fitting farewell as they lost their last league game by two runs against Lucknow Super Giants.

The game went right down to the wire as the Knight Riders did exceptionally well while chasing a mammoth 211. However, their efforts eventually went in vain LSG narrowly pipped them to secure a berth in the playoffs. Following the conclusion of the game, McCullum attended his last press conference as KKR head coach and answered several questions candidly.

I’ve had a great time over the last few years with KKR: Brendon McCullum

While KKR won’t go to the playoffs this year, McCullum lauded his team for playing some quality cricket. “I’ve had a great time over the last few years. I think we’ve played some great cricket this year. I’ll follow this moving forward I know they are in really good hands with the support staff and Shreyas as captain so yeah, watch out for KKR next year,” McCullum said in the post-match press conference on Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, McCullum, who smashed 158 on his IPL debut, also served KKR as a player and his records speak volumes of his brilliance. He hailed the gala T20 tournament for providing the youngsters with a great platform. “I have loved it (time in IPL). It’s been three years now and all three years have been in bubbles. I’m personally thankful to all parties involved for hosting IPL in between a pandemic. It has given the fans something to hold on to,” stated McCullum.

“It’s just a wonderful tournament, the biggest league in the world. It gives opportunities to some incredibly good talent. And as a coach to be able to be a part of it and give some of the guys the freedom to go out there and play with a positive attitude is something I’m forever grateful for,” he added.