Brendon McCullum asks England to improve 'humility' before Zimbabwe Test

Head coach Brendon McCullum has called on England to improve their "humility" as they begin a year that will define his spell in charge.

England play a one-off Test against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge on Thursday, before marquee series at home to India and away in Australia.

They do so after a mixed winter. McCullum's side won a Test series in New Zealand 2-1, but lost by the same scoreline in Pakistan and endured a wretched time in white-ball cricket.

Comments made by the players in the media have often come under scrutiny. In March, director of cricket Rob Key said the players need to "stop talking rubbish", while last month fast bowler Mark Wood admitted they can be "a bit dumb".

Speaking on Tuesday, New Zealander McCullum said: "It's not just about what you do on the cricket field. It's how you carry yourself. It's how you interact with the public. It's the messaging that you give.

"The ability these guys have to be able to play on the biggest stage, under the brightest lights and the pressure that takes is one thing, but also the ability to be humble and show some humility and not feel out of touch with the general population is something I'd like to see us improve on."

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