Breaking his silence on former coach Justin Langer`s claim that he was undermined by leaks, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins on Tuesday defended his side saying there are `no cowards` in the dressing room.
The first Test between Australia and West Indies starting on Wednesday has been overshadowed by Langer`s recent candid interview on the Back Chat podcast, where he attacked anonymous “cowards” who were not transparent about the feedback leading up to his messy exit earlier this year despite a successful Ashes campaign and the 2021 T20 World Cup victory.
Addressing the issue publicly for the first time, the Australian skipper strongly defended his dressing room and said it was `disappointing` to see that so much focus was given on off-field issues instead of the actual cricket.
“There`s no cowards in an Australian cricket team, not ever. I`d probably never disclose private conversations. I think it`s disappointing sometimes the focus gets drawn to off-field issues but it hasn`t really affected our team,” Cummins told reporters on the eve of the first Test.
Also read: Next men`s T20 World Cup to be in played in new format
In perhaps a sign of detente, Langer attempted to clarify his comments later and said that the current players were like “younger brothers” to him.
“I think there`s no ill will to what he was trying to do and he clarified afterwards,” Cummins said at Optus Stadium with the `Justin Langer Stand` in the backdrop.
“I think he had a think about it and clarified it, so thank him for that. But we`re really proud of the last 12 months, how we`ve fronted up, the way we`ve played, the way we`ve conducted ourselves. Players can certainly hold their heads high,” he added.
Cummins said he was “looking forward” to seeing Langer, who will be part of host broadcaster Seven`s commentary team this summer, and wasn`t expecting a frosty reception from parochial locals.
The 29-old pacer further mentioned that there was no bad blood between the two and said he was “looking forward” to seeing Langer, a local hero in Perth. The former Australian cricketer will be part of host broadcaster Seven`s commentary team this summer.
“He`ll be in and around here commentating so it`ll be good. We love playing here at the stadium. My idol mentor, DK Lillee as well, it`s his home state,” Cummins said.
Asked if the Australia team was out of favour in Western Australia, the skipper said,” We haven`t felt that at all. I know there`s been some conjecture but I think it camouflages over a lot of the good stuff that`s been going on and the support we`ve been receiving.”
This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever