England are preparing to replace Test head coach Brendon McCullum and expect to decide on the appointment before the start of their series against Pakistan, according to ECB chief executive Richard Gould. Both sources report that the England selection process is at an early stage, with the ECB planning to consider a shortlist of between six and 10 candidates. The outlets frame the timeline around the Pakistan tour/series as the point by which a new coach should be in place, reflecting the need for continuity ahead of upcoming Test matches. No specific candidate names are reported as being under active consideration in the provided coverage, and the accounts do not describe detailed selection criteria beyond the expected range of interview or review candidates. The reporting therefore focuses on the ECB’s process and scheduling rather than on who the leading contenders might be, while confirming the leadership change is tied to McCullum’s departure from the role.