Brendon McCullum hits back at ‘out of order’ criticism and defends Harry Brook

Brendon McCullum says his players have suffered a “pile-on” after criticism of their behaviour across the winter (Robbie Stephenson/PA) - (PA Wire)

Brendon McCullum has dismissed criticism of England’s behaviour as “out of order”, hit out at the perception that he runs a “loose ship” and launched a staunch defence of Harry Brook.

News emerged at the end of the 4-1 Ashes defeat – where England faced accusations of a “drinking culture” – that white-ball captain Brook had been involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on the preceding tour of New Zealand.