Brendon McCullum reflected on how his incredible 158* for Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the first IPL match changed his career for the better.
In 2008, Brendon McCullum wowed the cricket world with an incredible unbeaten 158 runs off 73 balls for Kolkata Knight Riders against Royal Challengers Bangalore, marking the IPL’s very first series. This unforgettable knock, peppered with 10 fours and 13 sixes, catapulted him to fame. As a dynamic force in T20 cricket, McCullum’s explosive batting style earned him global admiration.
Reflecting recently, the former New Zealand captain revealed how that groundbreaking innings transformed his life. At 42, he reminisces about how this stunning performance laid the groundwork for his iconic status in cricket.
“The reason why I daydream about that moment is because it literally changed my life. I was just a cricketer for New Zealand, where no one really knew what you did where you are from, or what you are capable of. But that day provided the platform, the forum, and the opportunity to change my life” McCullum said at the RCB Innovation Lab’s Leader’s Meet.
McCullum is looking ahead with eagerness to face India in a five-test series in January 2024, acknowledging the immense challenge against the formidable Indian team on their home turf. Embracing the opportunity to test themselves against the best, he believes India is unparalleled in their conditions.
“We have got a huge challenge against a very good Indian team in five tests in India. I am excited about it because you want to test yourself against the best side and I genuinely believe that India is the best in their own condition. It is going to be a good challenge for us. If we have success then fabulous, if we don’t then I know we will go down in the style that we want to go down,” he said.
“We are playing the game, because we love cricket and we want to try and be as good at cricket as we possibly can. During the time that you are in the chair, you want to make sure you enjoy it and you shouldn’t wait till the end of your career to do so. We are very lucky that we have had some immediate success but I don’t think it is the ceiling for us. I think we have seen some guys who have unlocked their potential in the last 18 months or so and that’s what the job is as a leader; to get the most out of the people that you’re in charge of,” McCullum added.
Last Updated on December 4, 2023
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