McCullum relaxes ECB's alcohol guidelines after T20I series win

Following England's 4-0 series win in the T20Is against India, head coach Brendon McCullum has overruled the ECB's guidelines asking the team to avoid consuming alcohol on the day before and after matches. McCullum said he was happy for his players to enjoy a drink "as long as no one lands on the front page."

The development preceded McCullum being stood down from the Test job, even as he will continue to be in charge of the white-ball setups.

On the back of a series of alcohol-related incidents that have marred English cricket since winter 2025, the ECB issued fresh guidelines, including a recommendation for players to not consume alcohol on the days before and after a match, as well as during the match.

However, it also carried a clause that McCullum and managing director Rob Key could relax the rule if deemed fit. The head coach has chosen to do that following England's win in the 5th T20I that saw them clinch the No.1 spot in the ICC team rankings.

"For a start, there's not many of our guys that actually drink, but anyone that wants a beer can have a beer," McCullum said. "The guidelines are in place. People are very aware of them. The policy is designed to make sure people are being looked after and making the right decisions."

McCullum reiterated his trust in his players, who he felt had to 'feel the warmth of success'.

"I trust the players completely. You still have to feel the warmth of success and if you are someone that likes a beer, then tonight is a great opportunity to enjoy yourself – as long as it's sensible and not to excess – and allow what you've achieved over the last ten days to sink in. Just as long as no one lands on the front page."

English men's cricket has found itself in multiple alcohol-related incidents since their tour of New Zealand last October. The latest saw Test captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson breach the team's midnight curfew following their win over New Zealand at Lord's in June. The duo were not considered for selection for the second Test pending an investigation. They were recalled for the third Test, with written warnings issued. Stokes eventually retired from international cricket after England lost the series 2-1 to New Zealand.