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Southee, Stokes and McCullum: The Kiwis helping England fly against India
Kieran Bingham ⹠ July 17th, 2025 5:00 pm
Southee (r) and Brendan McCullum (l) | Photo: Photosport
Tim Southee has found a new calling since retiring from international cricket, stepping into the role of fast bowling consultant for England.
Brought in by former Blackcaps teammate and England head coach Brendon McCullum, Southee has been helping shape the pace attack as England continues to rise in world cricket.
A strong glimpse of his impact came during Englandâs thrilling 22-run victory over India in the third Test at Lordâs.
Despite a slow start to the game, with the first couple of days featuring typical old-fashioned Test cricket, Southee was quick to appreciate the beauty of the format.
âItâs played over five days, and itâs a great win. Two good teams going at it,â he told Sport Nationâs Millsy & Guy.
He also noted the spirited nature of the contest, with players on both sides showing passion and commitment.
âIt was good to see a little bit of niggle till the end of day three or four. Both sides didnât back down. It wasnât nasty, just competitive, with the guys looking after each other.â
One of the most talked-about relationships in English cricket at the moment is between captain Ben Stokes and McCullum, who have transformed the teamâs approach to the game.
For Southee, the key to their success lies in the environment theyâve created.
Blackcap Jacob Duffy on how the English experience has helped his bowling | Sport Nation Cricket
âThe biggest strength of those two is getting the best out of the players. Theyâve created an environment where guys want to be a part of it, where they want to leave everything out on the field because they care about it so much,â he explained.
âThey bring out the best in each other, and they have a good time while doing it.â
In his new role, Southee has had the chance to work closely with some of the best batsmen in the world.
One of the most intriguing comparisons heâs drawn has been between his former teammate Kane Williamson and Englandâs Joe Root.
âThe obvious one is that they both love batting. They have a real passion for hitting balls. You donât get that good without it,â he said.
âTheyâre always looking for ways to improve. Iâve seen Joe in the nets, constantly working on his game. Heâs a phenomenal player, and itâll be exciting to see where he ends up.â
Southeeâs influence isnât limited to the batting side of things, though. As a fast bowler himself, he has been key in getting the best out of Englandâs pace attack, including Jofra Archer, who starred on his return to Test cricket.
Southee was full of praise for the raw pace and natural skill Archer brings to the table.
âHeâs a guy the crowd gets behind. He can make things happen from nothing,â he said.
âI donât think Iâve ever seen anyone make bowling look so easy. He just cruises in, lets the ball go, and has guys hopping around in the nets.â
Tim Southee signs off on his Test cricket career for New Zealand | Sport Nation
While coaching is a new venture for Southee, he has embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. âItâs been brilliant,â he said of his time spent coaching.
âItâs been a great introduction to coaching. Iâve loved working with these guys, and thereâs a lot of exciting talent within the bowling group.â
Itâs clear he enjoys being involved in the game again, this time in a mentoring role, helping the next generation of cricketers grow and develop.
âItâs nice to still be involved in the game and give back in a way,â he added.
As for how long his coaching stint in England will last, Southee isnât entirely sure.
His current contract is set for the English summer, and when asked about his potential involvement in the upcoming Ashes series, he said,
âIâm not sure yet. Discussions will be had over the next few weeks. Weâll get through this summer and go from there.â
For now, Tim Southeeâs journey in coaching is just beginning, but his experience, leadership, and insight into the game are already making a significant impact.
Whether on the field or in the coaching box, Southeeâs love for the game is as evident as ever, and his presence will continue to inspire those around him.
Listen to the full interview:
