The relationship between the two came under intense scrutiny after Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were dropped for the second Test against New Zealand while investigations into a nightclub incident were ongoing. Speculation only intensified when McCullum publicly admitted he had concerns about his captain during the fallout.
The controversy began after England's 115-run win over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord's. Ben Stokes and Atkinson breached the team's midnight curfew and later attended the Rex Rooms nightclub in Chelsea.
Addressing the speculation directly, Ben Stokes insisted there was a misunderstanding surrounding his bond with the New Zealand great.
"We genuinely are very good mates, and have built a rapport away from cricket. We've been through some testing times, great times, do we agree on everything? Absolutely not. Not agreeing on everything shouldn't be seen as a divide between me and Brendon.
The pair have worked together since the start of the Bazball era and have overseen England's remarkable transformation in Test cricket over the last four years.
Ben Stokes explains McCullum's public comments during controversy
The England captain, however, believes those comments were taken out of context and were simply made by a friend who cared.
"I think just give Brendon a break on all that. It was a hard thing for him to do to come up here and speak about that, I’m sure. I knew what he was meaning. He cares about me, he cares about members of that team as well. So I think don’t read into his words too much."
England captain says difficult period may strengthen partnership
The controversy had a significant impact on England's campaign. Without Stokes and Atkinson, England suffered a crushing 253-run defeat in the second Test at The Oval as New Zealand levelled the series at 1-1.
"It's a good question that [are you closer to McCullum?]. We certainly haven't drifted apart. There's been big speculation about it.
"But me and Brendon were talking pretty much every day, especially in the initial period. When the game started, Baz concentrated on the team as he needed to.
With both men now reunited ahead of the decisive third Test, England will be hoping to move beyond the off-field distractions and secure a series victory against New Zealand, while Stokes and McCullum look to put any lingering speculation firmly to rest.
Also Read: Ben Stokes breaks silence on retirement talk, ducks curfew question
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