McCullum, who retired from playing in 2019, has never coached in first-class cricket, but played 101 Tests for New Zealand.

As well as leading the Black Caps to the 2015 World Cup final, he also began a resurgence in their Test cricket performance that led to them being crowned as the inaugural world champions last year.

The legendary cricketer is believed to have agreed with the ECB and the announcement is expected to happen shortly, as reports suggest. McCullum played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s growth across all formats and is a right fit for the vacant role at the ECB.

According to Cricbuzz, the ECB has already made a formal offer after discussions began a few days ago, and an announcement is likely in the coming days. McCullum, who is in India as the head coach of the Kolkata Knight Riders franchise in the Indian Premier League, has been in contact with Rob Key for some time now.

Once the deal is finalized, his first assignment would be against his countrymen as England’s schedule begins with the New Zealand series in June.

Even after his confirmation, his joining date would not be confirmed because of his stint at the IPL 2022. The Kolkata Knight Riders are at such a stage where one cannot tell what the future holds for them. They may or may not qualify for the playoffs, but if they do, then McCullum’s stay in India will be extended.