Since Brendon McCullum took over as England’s Test coach in 2022 - the team has played cricket like few others: attacking relentlessly and chasing the improbable. The aggressive “Bazball” approach has brought plenty of stunning wins but it has also come with its share of defeats.
Though England have enjoyed plenty of success at home under McCullum, a few defeats have still slipped through. And each tells its own story of risk, failure and the fine margins this team is willing to play on.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
England's Test defeats at home under Brendon McCullum
Against South Africa at Lord's, 2022 - Lost by an innings
McCullum's red-hot start met its first major bump when Dean Elgar's South Africa showed up at Lord's with intent.
England's aggressive batting style unraveled quickly as they got all out twice in three days to lose by an innings and 12 runs -- a necessary reminder that Bazball wouldn't be smooth sailing all year.
Ashes heartbreak at Edgbaston, 2023 - Lost by 2 wickets
This was a match that came down to fine margins and one bold call: England's decision to declare at 393/8 on Day 1. With Joe Root still batting superbly - the declaration gave Australia just enough daylight.
Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon held their nerve on the final day and England lost by two wickets.
Against Australia at Lord's, 2023 - Lost by 43 runs
A chaotic defeat marked by Jonny Bairstow's bizarre dismissal and England's refusal to adjust their short-ball plan. With Lyon injured, the hosts had a golden chance to strike back in the Ashes but wasted it with loose shots and poor decisions. Australia took a 2-0 lead.
Against Sri Lanka at The Oval, 2024 - Lost by 8 wickets
England's gamble to debut Josh Hull backfired badly. They were bowled out for 156 in the second innings but the game was already slipping after a 7-64 collapse on Day 2. Sri Lanka chased down the target with ease.
Against India at Edgbaston, 2025 - Lost by 336 runs
India registered their first-ever win at Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 6 as they thrashed the hosts by 336 runs. Chasing a mammoth total of 608 in the fourth Innings, Stokes and Co were bundled out for just 271 runs.