He is a world leading wicketkeeper, who comes from a strong cricketing background. Brendon McCullum is truly making his mark on the international cricket stage.

Brendon’s road to the top team was an interesting one. He caught the eye of many in the cricketing world from a young age and was involved with age group cricket before becoming part of the domestic league, representing the Otago Volts.

He is known for his agile wicket keeping abilities and his powerful shots with the bat and says it’s a dream come true playing for the BLACKCAPS.

Brendon first graced the BLACKCAPS ODI team during the 2001/2002 season facing Australia in his first game and two years later he was picked for the test team. His first test was against South Africa in Hamilton in the 2003/2004.

He was also part of the team to wear the old school beige uniform, in the first Twenty20 international against Australia.

Brendon was also brought by the IPL’s Kolkata franchise and went on to make 158* which is the highest total in Twenty20 cricket.

He too comes from a family of cricketers. Older brother Nathan also plays for the Otago Volts while his Dad, Stuart, played first class cricket during the late 70s and 80s. Brendon’s five year old son has just taken up cricket, so you may just see the proud dad cheering on the sideline.

Outside of cricket Brendon enjoys spending time with his family and having a flutter at the horse races.

He would like to say a big thank you to all the BLACKCAP supporters. “Keep supporting because we really appreciate and respect the support we receive,” he says.

Quick fire questions

1.How would you describe yourself in three words?
“brash, trusting, positive”
2. If you weren’t a BLACKCAP what would you be?
“I wanted to be an All Black. But I’m very lucky that I have the opportunity to play at the top level and represent my country.”
3. What advice do you have for budding cricketers?
“Try and aim as high as you can and throw as far as you can. If you can do that you’ll do well.”