Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting on Saturday termed Australian head coach Justin Langer`s resignation, five months before his term expired, "a really sad day", while another stalwart, Matthew Hayden, castigated Test skipper Pat Cummins for failing to publicly endorse the 51-year-old Langer to get a new contract. 
 
Langer had taken charge of the Australian team in 2018 following the `Sandpaper gate` scandal, and while he was reportedly unpopular with some player in the side, he guided the team to its maiden ICC T20 World Cup title triumph in the UAE in November last year and the 4-0 Ashes victory recently. 
 
Langer resigned from his post on Saturday, unhappy with the short-term contract extension offered by Cricket Australia (CA) after a marathon seven-hour board meeting. 
 
Both Ponting and Hayden are Langer`s former teammates and close friends and they slammed CA for its handling of the matter, less than two months before the start of one of the most crucial Test and One-day International (ODI) series against Pakistan. 
 
"I think it`s a really sad day as far as Australian cricket is concerned," Ponting told ABC radio on Saturday. "And if you look back, it`s been a really poor six months. I think of the way that Cricket Australia as a whole have handled some of the better people in Australian cricket, Justin Langer and Tim Paine, I think it`s been almost embarrassing with the way they`ve handled those two cases." 
 
Paine stepped down as Australian Test skipper weeks before the start of the Ashes last year after a sexting scandal was revealed. He later took an indefinite break from all forms of cricket. 
 
A CA statement did not "address specifics of the review into Langer`s future, other than to confirm he had been offered a short-term contract extension," a report in cricket.com.au said. 
 
"CA would like to thank Justin for his outstanding leadership since he became Australian men`s team coach in 2018 and for guiding the team to the T20 World Cup title last year and the 4-0 Ashes victory," the CA statement read. 
 
"It was absolutely clear that no one backed him," an emotional Hayden told the ABC. 
 
"If you listen to the Australian captain (Cummins) the other day not mention once any kind of commendation or support for him, I don`t think (Justin) would be going very well at all. That would be extremely hurtful. The whole thing just reeks of being orchestrated, basically from the moment all of this garbage started coming out (about Langer`s coaching style) in winter last year. You could see the writing was on the wall," added Hayden. 
 
Cummins has never publicly endorsed Langer`s contract extension, and as recently as February 2 he avoided speaking on the head coach`s future, saying it is the job of CA to decide. "It`s part of speculation which I don`t think is really healthy. I just don`t want to add to it. That`s Cricket Australia`s job. It`s not my job," Cummins was quoted as saying by ABC News.

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Langer reportedly had an uneasy relationship with some players in the squad, and things came to a boil following Australia`s away defeat to Bangladesh in a T20I series last year. The Cricket Australia management and the Australian cricket team leadership group had to sit down to resolve the crisis. 
 
"Deep down, Pat (Cummins) might have known that this day was coming," Ponting said. "If he had have gone on the front foot and endorsed Justin, they would have been in a position where they wouldn`t have been able to move on from him. 
 
"If it`s not just him, if there are other players that are coming to him and letting him know that maybe they feel that Justin is not the right man, I think that actually puts Pat in a difficult position as well. 
 
"I am very close to Justin, we`re like brothers, but I`ve not got too heavily involved in this because... there`s no way that I could change the way that this looked like it was heading. What`s happened today, I`ve sort of felt that has been heading that way for quite a while," added Ponting. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting on Saturday termed Australian head coach Justin Langer`s resignation, five months before his term expired, "a really sad day", while another stalwart, Matthew Hayden, castigated Test skipper Pat Cummins for failing to publicly endorse the 51-year-old Langer to get a new contract.

Former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting on Saturday termed Australian head coach Justin Langer`s resignation, five months before his term expired, "a really sad day", while another stalwart, Matthew Hayden, castigated Test skipper Pat Cummins for failing to publicly endorse the 51-year-old Langer to get a new contract. Langer had taken charge of the Australian team in 2018 following the `Sandpaper gate` scandal, and while he was reportedly unpopular with some player in the side, he guided the team to its maiden ICC T20 World Cup title triumph in the UAE in November last year and the 4-0 Ashes victory recently. Langer resigned from his post on Saturday, unhappy with the short-term contract extension offered by Cricket Australia (CA) after a marathon seven-hour board meeting. Both Ponting and Hayden are Langer`s former teammates and close friends and they slammed CA for its handling of the matter, less than two months before the start of one of the most crucial Test and One-day International (ODI) series against Pakistan. "I think it`s a really sad day as far as Australian cricket is concerned," Ponting told ABC radio on Saturday. "And if you look back, it`s been a really poor six months. I think of the way that Cricket Australia as a whole have handled some of the better people in Australian cricket, Justin Langer and Tim Paine, I think it`s been almost embarrassing with the way they`ve handled those two cases." Paine stepped down as Australian Test skipper weeks before the start of the Ashes last year after a sexting scandal was revealed. He later took an indefinite break from all forms of cricket. A CA statement did not "address specifics of the review into Langer`s future, other than to confirm he had been offered a short-term contract extension," a report in cricket.com.au said. "CA would like to thank Justin for his outstanding leadership since he became Australian men`s team coach in 2018 and for guiding the team to the T20 World Cup title last year and the 4-0 Ashes victory," the CA statement read. "It was absolutely clear that no one backed him," an emotional Hayden told the ABC. "If you listen to the Australian captain (Cummins) the other day not mention once any kind of commendation or support for him, I don`t think (Justin) would be going very well at all. That would be extremely hurtful. The whole thing just reeks of being orchestrated, basically from the moment all of this garbage started coming out (about Langer`s coaching style) in winter last year. You could see the writing was on the wall," added Hayden. Cummins has never publicly endorsed Langer`s contract extension, and as recently as February 2 he avoided speaking on the head coach`s future, saying it is the job of CA to decide. "It`s part of speculation which I don`t think is really healthy. I just don`t want to add to it. That`s Cricket Australia`s job. It`s not my job," Cummins was quoted as saying by ABC News. Also Read: Days after winning Ashes 2021-22, Justin Langer resigns as Australia's head coach Langer reportedly had an uneasy relationship with some players in the squad, and things came to a boil following Australia`s away defeat to Bangladesh in a T20I series last year. The Cricket Australia management and the Australian cricket team leadership group had to sit down to resolve the crisis. "Deep down, Pat (Cummins) might have known that this day was coming," Ponting said. "If he had have gone on the front foot and endorsed Justin, they would have been in a position where they wouldn`t have been able to move on from him. "If it`s not just him, if there are other players that are coming to him and letting him know that maybe they feel that Justin is not the right man, I think that actually puts Pat in a difficult position as well. "I am very close to Justin, we`re like brothers, but I`ve not got too heavily involved in this because... there`s no way that I could change the way that this looked like it was heading. What`s happened today, I`ve sort of felt that has been heading that way for quite a while," added Ponting.

Ricky Ponting, Matthew Hayden slam Cricket Australia as Justin Langer quits as head coach

Justin Langer resigned as coach of Australia on Saturday, just weeks after leading the side to a 4-0 Ashes series win over England, with Cricket Australia saying he had declined a short-term extension to his contract.

Langer`s departure came after he held contract discussions with Cricket Australia on Friday, with his current deal set to expire in June. Australia also won last year`s Twenty20 World Cup for the first time under Langer but there have been reports of player discontent over his coaching style.

Langer was reported to have reacted angrily during a recent meeting with Cricket Australia over his contract and had been asked to reapply for the role.

His management company, Dynamic Sports &amp; Entertainment Group (DSEG), said his resignation was effective immediately.

"DSEG confirms that our client Justin Langer has this morning tendered his resignation as coach of the Australian men`s cricket team," the company tweeted.

Cricket Australia said in a statement Langer was offered the extension on Friday. "Justin was offered a short-term extension to his current contract, which sadly he has opted not to accept," it said, adding that Andrew McDonald would act as interim head coach with a test tour of Pakistan just weeks away.

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&nbsp;

"The contract extension offered to Justin was the result of a thorough review process that evaluated many factors including future requirements of the team and the upcoming extensive schedule of fixtures.

"It included the opportunity to defend the T20 World Cup title in Australia at the end of this year. Justin informed CA this morning he was not accepting the offer and would resign with immediate effect."

Langer took over as head coach in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in 2018 and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said he had been "outstanding" in the role.

"He has restored the trust in the team and his legacy is assured," he said.

Despite Australia`s success, there had been speculation in recent months that Langer did not enjoy the full support of the dressing room. Senior players and Cricket Australia managers met last year amid reports Langer`s intense coaching style had rubbed players the wrong way.

Australia test captain Pat Cummins recently praised Langer for doing a "fantastic" job but said it was only fair for Cricket Australia to conduct an evaluation process before making a decision on renewing his contract.

Former captain Ricky Ponting was scathing in the way the governing body had handled the matter. "It`s a really sad day as far as Australian cricket is concerned," he said on ABC Radio on Saturday.

"Reading the tea leaves, it seems, as he would say, a very small group of the playing group ... haven`t loved the way he`s gone about it.

"And that`s been enough to force a man that`s put his life, heart and soul into Australian cricket and done what I believe is a sensational job in turning around the culture and the way the Australian cricket team has been looked at over the last three or four years ... out of his dream job."

Langer, who earned 105 test caps, said last month he was proud of how the team had been performing. "Whatever happens from now on, we can all be incredibly proud of this little period," he said on Australian SEN Radio. [L4N2OZ321]

"We had two missions: to win the (Twenty20) World Cup and to win the Ashes.

Langer`s resignation comes a day after his England counterpart Chris Silverwood stepped down from his position.

Justin Langer resigned as coach of Australia on Saturday, just weeks after leading the side to a 4-0 Ashes series win over England, with Cricket Australia saying he had declined a short-term extension to his contract.

Justin Langer resigned as coach of Australia on Saturday, just weeks after leading the side to a 4-0 Ashes series win over England, with Cricket Australia saying he had declined a short-term extension to his contract. Langer`s departure came after he held contract discussions with Cricket Australia on Friday, with his current deal set to expire in June. Australia also won last year`s Twenty20 World Cup for the first time under Langer but there have been reports of player discontent over his coaching style. Langer was reported to have reacted angrily during a recent meeting with Cricket Australia over his contract and had been asked to reapply for the role. His management company, Dynamic Sports & Entertainment Group (DSEG), said his resignation was effective immediately. "DSEG confirms that our client Justin Langer has this morning tendered his resignation as coach of the Australian men`s cricket team," the company tweeted. Cricket Australia said in a statement Langer was offered the extension on Friday. "Justin was offered a short-term extension to his current contract, which sadly he has opted not to accept," it said, adding that Andrew McDonald would act as interim head coach with a test tour of Pakistan just weeks away. Also Read: IPL is the best tournament in the world, I think we owe India a lot: David Warner "The contract extension offered to Justin was the result of a thorough review process that evaluated many factors including future requirements of the team and the upcoming extensive schedule of fixtures. "It included the opportunity to defend the T20 World Cup title in Australia at the end of this year. Justin informed CA this morning he was not accepting the offer and would resign with immediate effect." Langer took over as head coach in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in 2018 and Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said he had been "outstanding" in the role. "He has restored the trust in the team and his legacy is assured," he said. Despite Australia`s success, there had been speculation in recent months that Langer did not enjoy the full support of the dressing room. Senior players and Cricket Australia managers met last year amid reports Langer`s intense coaching style had rubbed players the wrong way. Australia test captain Pat Cummins recently praised Langer for doing a "fantastic" job but said it was only fair for Cricket Australia to conduct an evaluation process before making a decision on renewing his contract. Former captain Ricky Ponting was scathing in the way the governing body had handled the matter. "It`s a really sad day as far as Australian cricket is concerned," he said on ABC Radio on Saturday. "Reading the tea leaves, it seems, as he would say, a very small group of the playing group ... haven`t loved the way he`s gone about it. "And that`s been enough to force a man that`s put his life, heart and soul into Australian cricket and done what I believe is a sensational job in turning around the culture and the way the Australian cricket team has been looked at over the last three or four years ... out of his dream job." Langer, who earned 105 test caps, said last month he was proud of how the team had been performing. "Whatever happens from now on, we can all be incredibly proud of this little period," he said on Australian SEN Radio. [L4N2OZ321] "We had two missions: to win the (Twenty20) World Cup and to win the Ashes. Langer`s resignation comes a day after his England counterpart Chris Silverwood stepped down from his position.

Days after winning Ashes 2021-22, Justin Langer resigns as Australia's head coach

Australia coach Justin Langer called former Test captain Tim Paine one of his "really close friends" - someone whom he admire "enormously" and added that the player is "shattered" after the sexting scandal. The coach has not ruled out a return to international cricket adding that he is "very sad with what's happened".&nbsp;

Recently, Paine resigned as the Test captain over sending inappropriate text messages to a former female colleague in 2017. He said that his actions do not meet the standard of an Australian cricket captain.&nbsp;

Australian team's preparations for the Ashes series were disrupted because of the scandal as he announced to quit the captaincy and said he would be taking an indefinite mental health break from the game.&nbsp;

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Speaking for the first time since the scandal, Langer told reporters: "When I saw him, he's obviously shattered with what’s happened. He has been such an exemplary figure in Australian cricket for the last four years particularly."

"His life has changed, obviously. But you'd have to ask him how he's going. It was important to see him, we talk about looking after our boys and having each other’s backs. It was a no-brainer for me to go and see him," Langer said.&nbsp;

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"He's one of my really close friends and someone I admire enormously. Certainly, in this generation of players, he's one of the best people I've met in the game of cricket," he said.&nbsp;

"He's been our captain for a long time, he and I have been through a journey like we have with all of this group. He's one of the best people I've met in cricket, so it was nice to go down and see him," Langer added.&nbsp;

Australia coach Justin Langer called former Test captain Tim Paine one of his "really close friends" - someone whom he admire "enormously" and added that the player is "shattered" after the sexting scandal.

Australia coach Justin Langer called former Test captain Tim Paine one of his "really close friends" - someone whom he admire "enormously" and added that the player is "shattered" after the sexting scandal. The coach has not ruled out a return to international cricket adding that he is "very sad with what's happened". Recently, Paine resigned as the Test captain over sending inappropriate text messages to a former female colleague in 2017. He said that his actions do not meet the standard of an Australian cricket captain. Australian team's preparations for the Ashes series were disrupted because of the scandal as he announced to quit the captaincy and said he would be taking an indefinite mental health break from the game. ALSO READ | Poorest in last 4-5 years: Sourav Ganguly opens up on India's disappointing show in T20 World Cup 2021 Speaking for the first time since the scandal, Langer told reporters: "When I saw him, he's obviously shattered with what’s happened. He has been such an exemplary figure in Australian cricket for the last four years particularly." "His life has changed, obviously. But you'd have to ask him how he's going. It was important to see him, we talk about looking after our boys and having each other’s backs. It was a no-brainer for me to go and see him," Langer said. ALSO READ: New Zealand's Ajaz Patel creates history, claims all ten wickets in a Test innings against India "He's one of my really close friends and someone I admire enormously. Certainly, in this generation of players, he's one of the best people I've met in the game of cricket," he said. "He's been our captain for a long time, he and I have been through a journey like we have with all of this group. He's one of the best people I've met in cricket, so it was nice to go down and see him," Langer added.

Justin Langer not ruling out former Test skipper Tim Paine's cricketing return: 'I admire enormously'

Australia were once a dominant force in world cricket. They had completed a hat-trick of ODI World Cup titles in 2007 after winning the trophy in consecutive editions in 1999, 2003 and 2007. They have also been one of the best Test teams in the world for a number of years, however, Australia have failed to replicate that success in T20Is.

Australia are yet to win their maiden T20 World Cup title despite having come close on a few occasions. In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021, the Aussies have reached the semi-finals after their win over West Indies on Saturday. David Warner's unbeaten 89 helped Australia thrash the defending champions by eight wickets and seal a spot in the semis.

Langer believes the current Australia team has got it in them to become the best team in the world once again. While admitting that England have been leading the ways for the last few years now, Langer said the Aussies have great prospects and are ready to dominate world cricket once again.

"Not that long ago we were the best team in the world and some of that cricket shows we can be the best team in the world," Langer told reporters.

"I think England are leading the way at the moment and we've got exciting prospects. We're taking great lessons from this tournament on how we can continue to play T20 cricket now, for this tournament, and moving forward," he added.

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Austrakia had their fate in their own hands ahead of the game against West Indies on Saturday as they knew a win would confirm their spot in the semis. The Aussies produced a clinical performance with the bat and the ball to register a comprehensive win and progress to the knockout round where they will up against Pakistan in the semi-final.

"It was brilliant again last night, I think our last few games have been outstanding cricket," said Langer.

"The boys have really stepped up. It was quite a sobering experience against England. We knew we had to do some work and the way the boys responded to that has been brilliant, so it's nice to be in the semi-final," he added. 
&nbsp;

Australia were once a dominant force in world cricket. They had completed a hat-trick of ODI World Cup titles in 2007 after winning the trophy in consecutive editions in 1999, 2003 and 2007.

Australia were once a dominant force in world cricket. They had completed a hat-trick of ODI World Cup titles in 2007 after winning the trophy in consecutive editions in 1999, 2003 and 2007. They have also been one of the best Test teams in the world for a number of years, however, Australia have failed to replicate that success in T20Is. Australia are yet to win their maiden T20 World Cup title despite having come close on a few occasions. In the ongoing T20 World Cup 2021, the Aussies have reached the semi-finals after their win over West Indies on Saturday. David Warner's unbeaten 89 helped Australia thrash the defending champions by eight wickets and seal a spot in the semis. Langer believes the current Australia team has got it in them to become the best team in the world once again. While admitting that England have been leading the ways for the last few years now, Langer said the Aussies have great prospects and are ready to dominate world cricket once again. "Not that long ago we were the best team in the world and some of that cricket shows we can be the best team in the world," Langer told reporters. "I think England are leading the way at the moment and we've got exciting prospects. We're taking great lessons from this tournament on how we can continue to play T20 cricket now, for this tournament, and moving forward," he added. Also Read: No Virat Kohli in Harbhajan Singh's star-studded all-time T20 XI, MS Dhoni named captain Austrakia had their fate in their own hands ahead of the game against West Indies on Saturday as they knew a win would confirm their spot in the semis. The Aussies produced a clinical performance with the bat and the ball to register a comprehensive win and progress to the knockout round where they will up against Pakistan in the semi-final. "It was brilliant again last night, I think our last few games have been outstanding cricket," said Langer. "The boys have really stepped up. It was quite a sobering experience against England. We knew we had to do some work and the way the boys responded to that has been brilliant, so it's nice to be in the semi-final," he added.

England are leading the way but Australia can be best team in the world, says coach Justin Langer

Former captain Ricky Ponting has lent his support to ex-team mate Justin Langer as the embattled coach attempts to weather a challenging period at the helm of Australian cricket.

Langer has come under scrutiny amid media reports players have tired of his intense coaching style after disappointing results on recent limited-overs tours of the West Indies and Bangladesh.

"I know there's been a lot of negativity the last few weeks, I really felt for Justin, I rang Justin a few times," Ponting, who captained Australia from 2004 to 2008, told 2GB radio.

"They just got back from that tough tour of the West Indies and then Bangladesh, and he was locked up in his hotel room in Adelaide, and he was sort of copping it left, right and centre.

"Me and a lot of his close friends have reached out to him."

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Test captain Tim Paine and other senior players have held talks with Langer.

"As I made really clear to Justin, when you're in that position in Australian sport, whether you're a high-profile coach or a captain of a national team, if you're not getting the results then you've got to expect the negativity," Ponting said.

"If you wind the clock back not even 12 months ago, the Australian team were the number one-ranked test team and T20 team in the world, we know all the talent is there."

Langer said on Sunday that the talks had been beneficial.

"We all got a lot off our chests," he told the Western Australian. "I think we are all in a better place now.

"When you win, everyone is happy and gets on with things but when you are losing, that is when the finger-pointing starts and people look for excuses," he added.

"We have had a rough trot in recent times but....get back to winning and you won't hear about anything else."

&nbsp;

Former captain Ricky Ponting has lent his support to ex-team mate Justin Langer as the embattled coach attempts to weather a challenging period at the helm of Australian cricket.

Former captain Ricky Ponting has lent his support to ex-team mate Justin Langer as the embattled coach attempts to weather a challenging period at the helm of Australian cricket. Langer has come under scrutiny amid media reports players have tired of his intense coaching style after disappointing results on recent limited-overs tours of the West Indies and Bangladesh. "I know there's been a lot of negativity the last few weeks, I really felt for Justin, I rang Justin a few times," Ponting, who captained Australia from 2004 to 2008, told 2GB radio. "They just got back from that tough tour of the West Indies and then Bangladesh, and he was locked up in his hotel room in Adelaide, and he was sort of copping it left, right and centre. "Me and a lot of his close friends have reached out to him." ALSO READ | Under-pressure coach Justin Langer says Australia in 'better place' after talks Test captain Tim Paine and other senior players have held talks with Langer. "As I made really clear to Justin, when you're in that position in Australian sport, whether you're a high-profile coach or a captain of a national team, if you're not getting the results then you've got to expect the negativity," Ponting said. "If you wind the clock back not even 12 months ago, the Australian team were the number one-ranked test team and T20 team in the world, we know all the talent is there." Langer said on Sunday that the talks had been beneficial. "We all got a lot off our chests," he told the Western Australian. "I think we are all in a better place now. "When you win, everyone is happy and gets on with things but when you are losing, that is when the finger-pointing starts and people look for excuses," he added. "We have had a rough trot in recent times but....get back to winning and you won't hear about anything else."

Ricky Ponting lends support to embattled Australia coach Justin Langer

Embattled coach Justin Langer on Monday insisted the Australian cricket team was "in a better place" after clear-the-air talks with senior players following discontent over his management style.

Langer came under intense scrutiny in the wake of recent consecutive white-ball series losses to the West Indies and Bangladesh, with friction over his intense leadership and mood swings again resurfacing.

It sparked an emergency meeting with Test skipper Tim Paine, his deputy Pat Cummins, limited-overs captain Aaron Finch and Cricket Australia executives.

Langer admitted it had been a "tough" time personally, but said he had learned from the experience, drawing on the darkest moments in his playing career as a parallel.

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"I look back at 1993, 1998 and 2001 when I was dropped from the Australian team," he told the West Australian newspaper as he aimed to reset ahead of the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup and a home Ashes series against England.

"I was devastated when they happened and thought they were amongst the worst times in my life."

"Yet I look back on them now and realise that those experiences, as gutting as they were at the time, made me stronger and better as a player," he added.

"The situation at the moment is very tough but I am confident that I will become a better coach from it."

Both Paine and Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley have publicly backed Langer, who revealed he had held candid conversations with select players in which numerous issues were aired.

"We all got a lot off our chests," he said. "I think we are all in a better place now."

While Langer has been widely praised for restoring the culture of the Australian team after the 2018 "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in South Africa, rumours of dressing-room friction have never been far away.

He was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership.

Langer said criticism came with not winning.

"When you win, everyone is happy and gets on with things but when you are losing, that is when the finger-pointing starts and people look for excuses," he said.

"We have had a rough trot in recent times but we retained the Ashes only a little while ago and were ranked No.1 in Test and T20 cricket not that long ago.

"Get back to winning and you won't hear about anything else."

Embattled coach Justin Langer on Monday insisted the Australian cricket team was "in a better place" after clear-the-air talks with senior players following discontent over his management style.

Embattled coach Justin Langer on Monday insisted the Australian cricket team was "in a better place" after clear-the-air talks with senior players following discontent over his management style. Langer came under intense scrutiny in the wake of recent consecutive white-ball series losses to the West Indies and Bangladesh, with friction over his intense leadership and mood swings again resurfacing. It sparked an emergency meeting with Test skipper Tim Paine, his deputy Pat Cummins, limited-overs captain Aaron Finch and Cricket Australia executives. Langer admitted it had been a "tough" time personally, but said he had learned from the experience, drawing on the darkest moments in his playing career as a parallel. ALSO READ | '54 minutes for 7 wickets to fall is a little bit hard to take', says Sunil Gavaskar "I look back at 1993, 1998 and 2001 when I was dropped from the Australian team," he told the West Australian newspaper as he aimed to reset ahead of the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup and a home Ashes series against England. "I was devastated when they happened and thought they were amongst the worst times in my life." "Yet I look back on them now and realise that those experiences, as gutting as they were at the time, made me stronger and better as a player," he added. "The situation at the moment is very tough but I am confident that I will become a better coach from it." Both Paine and Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley have publicly backed Langer, who revealed he had held candid conversations with select players in which numerous issues were aired. "We all got a lot off our chests," he said. "I think we are all in a better place now." While Langer has been widely praised for restoring the culture of the Australian team after the 2018 "Sandpaper-gate" scandal in South Africa, rumours of dressing-room friction have never been far away. He was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership. Langer said criticism came with not winning. "When you win, everyone is happy and gets on with things but when you are losing, that is when the finger-pointing starts and people look for excuses," he said. "We have had a rough trot in recent times but we retained the Ashes only a little while ago and were ranked No.1 in Test and T20 cricket not that long ago. "Get back to winning and you won't hear about anything else."

Under-pressure coach Justin Langer says Australia in 'better place' after talks

Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes.&nbsp;

After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under&nbsp;greater scrutiny.&nbsp;

"He deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the T20 World Cup, he deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the Ashes," Queensland captain Khawaja said on his YouTube channel.

"If after all that, things are still not going well ... that is when you look at things and think 'OK, maybe do we need to change something?'"

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Khawaja also highlighted&nbsp;the impact of ongoing controversy on Langer as he might feel that the players are "stabbing him in the back".&nbsp;

"How do you think JL feels? He probably feels like the guys in the team are stabbing him in the back and that's what it looks like and that's why it's so disappointing," Khawaja added.

"It's actually a really bad look. This is something the group needs to sort out ASAP.

"It's not always the coaches. The guys aren't performing, the players need to take ownership at some stage. It's not one person so there needs to be some sort of perspective put around this.

"He [Langer] is a very passionate person. Loves Australian cricket, wants the best for everyone, wants to only succeed. He's driven by winning, driven by winning the right way and all the things he brought after sandpapergate were focused on those things.&nbsp;

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Khawaja had a heated exchange with Langer during the 2018 tour of United Arab Emirates as captured in "The Test".

Media pundits have cast Khawaja as a victim of standing up to Langer, linking the UAE episode with the batsman's omission from the Australia team for the past two years.

Khawaja, who has a batting average above 40 from his 44 tests, said his relationship with Langer had nothing to with his non-selection.&nbsp;

"My relationship with Justin Langer is really good. To be honest, I still talk to him, still text him here and there, and that's because we have a lot of respect for each other," he said.&nbsp;

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(with inputs from agencies)

Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes. After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under greater scrutiny.

Australia's Usman Khawaja believes Justin Langer "deserves the opportunity" to coach the Australia cricket team in the T20 World Cup and also in the Ashes. After several media reports suggested that players have wearied of his intense coaching style, putting the coach's position under greater scrutiny. "He deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the T20 World Cup, he deserves the opportunity to coach Australia in the Ashes," Queensland captain Khawaja said on his YouTube channel. "If after all that, things are still not going well ... that is when you look at things and think 'OK, maybe do we need to change something?'" ALSO READ | 'Pakistan is facing an issue with their top-order in overseas tours': Ramiz Raja Khawaja also highlighted the impact of ongoing controversy on Langer as he might feel that the players are "stabbing him in the back". "How do you think JL feels? He probably feels like the guys in the team are stabbing him in the back and that's what it looks like and that's why it's so disappointing," Khawaja added. "It's actually a really bad look. This is something the group needs to sort out ASAP. "It's not always the coaches. The guys aren't performing, the players need to take ownership at some stage. It's not one person so there needs to be some sort of perspective put around this. "He [Langer] is a very passionate person. Loves Australian cricket, wants the best for everyone, wants to only succeed. He's driven by winning, driven by winning the right way and all the things he brought after sandpapergate were focused on those things. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Dinesh Karthik names India and West Indies as his finalists Khawaja had a heated exchange with Langer during the 2018 tour of United Arab Emirates as captured in "The Test". Media pundits have cast Khawaja as a victim of standing up to Langer, linking the UAE episode with the batsman's omission from the Australia team for the past two years. Khawaja, who has a batting average above 40 from his 44 tests, said his relationship with Langer had nothing to with his non-selection. "My relationship with Justin Langer is really good. To be honest, I still talk to him, still text him here and there, and that's because we have a lot of respect for each other," he said. × (with inputs from agencies)

Justin Langer will feel players 'stabbing him in the back,' says Usman Khawaja as he backs the Australian coach

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-virat-kohlis-way-is-to-get-very-abusive-says-a-former-england-batsman-407058" hreflang="en">Cricket - 'Virat Kohli’s way is to get very abusive', says a former England batsman</a>

However, Australian Test captain Tim Paine has backed Langer as the coach of the team. Paine said he and other senior players had cleared the air with Langer and that the coach was not to blame for the team's recent setbacks in the West Indies and Bangladesh.

"It was important that myself, Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins and the leaders of Australian cricket got around him, discussed things that needed to be discussed and then got around him and supported him to move forward," Paine said on radio station SEN Hobart on Friday.

"The last few days we've really been able to galvanise around him, to have some really robust discussions on where we want to take this cricket team, what we expect of him and what he expects of us."

This week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said that Langer was contracted through to mid-2022 and praised him for helping rally the team when he took over in the wake of the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in 2018.

"It’s been a bit of a shame the last week that a lot of the failings around Australian cricket have been pinned on JL (Langer)," added Paine.

"That’s certainly not the case. We haven’t lived up to our own standards on the field."

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year.

Justin Langer's role as the head coach of the Australian cricket team has come under scanner after his side suffered consecutive defeats in the T20 series. The Aussies were thrashed 4-1 by the West Indies and 4-1 in Bangladesh, raising concerns ahead of ICC T20 World Cup that will kick off later this year. ALSO READ: Cricket - 'Virat Kohli’s way is to get very abusive', says a former England batsman However, Australian Test captain Tim Paine has backed Langer as the coach of the team. Paine said he and other senior players had cleared the air with Langer and that the coach was not to blame for the team's recent setbacks in the West Indies and Bangladesh. "It was important that myself, Aaron Finch, Pat Cummins and the leaders of Australian cricket got around him, discussed things that needed to be discussed and then got around him and supported him to move forward," Paine said on radio station SEN Hobart on Friday. "The last few days we've really been able to galvanise around him, to have some really robust discussions on where we want to take this cricket team, what we expect of him and what he expects of us." This week, Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley said that Langer was contracted through to mid-2022 and praised him for helping rally the team when he took over in the wake of the Newlands ball-tampering scandal in 2018. "It’s been a bit of a shame the last week that a lot of the failings around Australian cricket have been pinned on JL (Langer)," added Paine. "That’s certainly not the case. We haven’t lived up to our own standards on the field."

'It’s been a bit of a shame': Tim Paine backs Justin Langer as coach of Australian cricket team

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series.

Langer was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership and shifting moods.

He took the criticism on board and admitted he had been "grumpy and intense" most of his life.

Langer faced controversy again last week after reports of a heated argument with a Cricket Australia journalist after a poor white-ball tour of the West Indies and Bangladesh.

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The confrontation is said to have taken place in the team hotel, with players and staff watching.

Langer's friend and former teammate&nbsp;Adam Gilchrist&nbsp;said growing speculation around his position could "derail the summer", and urged Cricket Australia to stamp out leaks to the media.

"Justin is very aware of these perceived issues with his management style, and he's going to keep trying to work with that, and I'm sure the players will try to work alongside that as well," Gilchrist said this week.

"But the bigger issue, and it will derail the summer if it doesn't get sorted out, is the fact these journalists have a direct line of contact with people within the inner sanctum there, and the people in that inner sanctum are happy to let it get out.

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"So Cricket Australia needs to try to address this very quickly.&nbsp;

"If everyone believes the best thing to do is move on from Justin Langer as a coach, do it sooner rather than later because it is just going to create a side issue, which is going to continue to be a circus," he added.

Cricket Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

- 'Hair trigger' -

Langer was hired in the wake of the notorious "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering tour of South Africa in 2019, which led to then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner being suspended for a year.

The coach was tasked with rebuilding the culture of Australian cricket and was widely praised for doing so, but there have been rumours of dressing-room friction.

Malcolm Conn, who was media manager for the Australian team during their 2019 Ashes tour of England, said he respected Langer but quickly learned to stay out of his way.

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"You were never certain whether your question was going to be met with an answer or an explosion," he wrote in an opinion piece for the Sydney Morning Herald on Wednesday.

Conn detailed players walking on eggshells around Langer and his "sudden obsession with things that...didn't seem to matter".

"Like many of these minor incidents, Langer's latest blow-up at a Cricket Australia digital journalist during the recent tour of Bangladesh is nothing in isolation, but contributes to a pattern of erratic behaviour," he added.

Peter Lalor, chief cricket writer for The Australian broadsheet, said Langer doesn't deserve to have his reputation tarnished over a relatively minor incident.

"But the attention the event gained and the uncertainty it has caused suggests things are on something of a hair trigger," he added.

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series.

Australia cricket coach Justin Langer was under mounting pressure Wednesday over his management style, sparking uncertainty around his position heading into the Twenty20 World Cup and an Ashes series. Langer was forced to address negative feedback earlier this year when discontent surfaced about his "headmaster-like" leadership and shifting moods. He took the criticism on board and admitted he had been "grumpy and intense" most of his life. Langer faced controversy again last week after reports of a heated argument with a Cricket Australia journalist after a poor white-ball tour of the West Indies and Bangladesh. ALSO READ | India vs England: Sachin Tendulkar responds to Virat Kohli's poor form The confrontation is said to have taken place in the team hotel, with players and staff watching. Langer's friend and former teammate Adam Gilchrist said growing speculation around his position could "derail the summer", and urged Cricket Australia to stamp out leaks to the media. "Justin is very aware of these perceived issues with his management style, and he's going to keep trying to work with that, and I'm sure the players will try to work alongside that as well," Gilchrist said this week. "But the bigger issue, and it will derail the summer if it doesn't get sorted out, is the fact these journalists have a direct line of contact with people within the inner sanctum there, and the people in that inner sanctum are happy to let it get out. ALSO READ | From Sourav Ganguly to Sachin Tendulkar: Former Indian cricketers laud Virat-led team after 'fantastic' Lord's win "So Cricket Australia needs to try to address this very quickly. "If everyone believes the best thing to do is move on from Justin Langer as a coach, do it sooner rather than later because it is just going to create a side issue, which is going to continue to be a circus," he added. Cricket Australia did not immediately respond to a request for comment. - 'Hair trigger' - Langer was hired in the wake of the notorious "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering tour of South Africa in 2019, which led to then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner being suspended for a year. The coach was tasked with rebuilding the culture of Australian cricket and was widely praised for doing so, but there have been rumours of dressing-room friction. Malcolm Conn, who was media manager for the Australian team during their 2019 Ashes tour of England, said he respected Langer but quickly learned to stay out of his way. ALSO READ | INDvsENG: Netizens says 'don't mess with team India' on Bumrah-Buttler argument; Virat's reaction goes viral - watch "You were never certain whether your question was going to be met with an answer or an explosion," he wrote in an opinion piece for the Sydney Morning Herald on Wednesday. Conn detailed players walking on eggshells around Langer and his "sudden obsession with things that...didn't seem to matter". "Like many of these minor incidents, Langer's latest blow-up at a Cricket Australia digital journalist during the recent tour of Bangladesh is nothing in isolation, but contributes to a pattern of erratic behaviour," he added. Peter Lalor, chief cricket writer for The Australian broadsheet, said Langer doesn't deserve to have his reputation tarnished over a relatively minor incident. "But the attention the event gained and the uncertainty it has caused suggests things are on something of a hair trigger," he added.

Cricket - 'Coach Grumpy': Justin Langer's leadership under spotlight

Australia&nbsp;head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points.&nbsp;

Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match.&nbsp;

"This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It wasn't until after the game that we&nbsp;realised&nbsp;our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf.&nbsp;

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"I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to&nbsp;Painey&nbsp;(skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship.&nbsp;

"And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane.&nbsp;

"It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend."&nbsp;

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Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control.&nbsp;

"How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said.&nbsp;

"And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing.&nbsp;

"At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again.&nbsp;

"It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added.&nbsp;

The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia&nbsp;were&nbsp;docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.

Australia head coach Justin Langer has expressed his disappointment over the slow-over rate against India in the Boxing Day Test, which ultimately cost the Aussies a spot in the final of the ICC World Test Championship. Four points were docked from Australia's points tally in the WTC after Tim Paine's side were two overs short of the required rate of 15 overs per hour. The four-point deduction meant that Australia ended up third in the ICC World Test Championship table with 69.2 percentage points while India finished first with 72 percentage points and New Zealand finishing second with 70 percentage points. Langer said that Australia's team manager Gavin Dovey was on leave and hence, the team was unaware of the slow-over rate in the match. "This might be the silliest thing I've ever said, but our manager Gavin Dovey ... he'd been away, he'd gone home for Christmas to be with his family," Langer told SEN. "It wasn't until after the game that we realised our over rate was down. Now, that's really slack on our behalf. ALSO READ: 'I turned to Rahul Dravid and asked...' Sam Billings recalls watching Rishabh Pant for first time "I remember we were in the team room afterwards and I spoke to Painey (skipper Tim Paine) and Dene Hills, our analyst, about it. I was a bit grumpy about it and I thought 'imagine if this cost us the World Test Championship. "And I mentioned it to the players afterwards that two overs down could cost us the World Test Championship. And so, we have to get better at that and make sure it doesn't happen in Sydney and Brisbane. "It was relevant at the time and it certainly became incredibly significant over the weekend." ALSO READ: IPL 2021 venues could host ICC T20 World Cup matches: Report Langer is of the view that Australia should be more accountable and take responsibility for the crucial slow-over rate breach at the MCG as it was something that was within their control. "How often do you get docked points in Test cricket these days? Rarely," he said. "And we had that in our control, that's an attitudinal thing. "At the time, we probably thought it's not that big a deal the players get fined but that cost us the World Test Championship (Final) after what had been two really good years for Australian cricket where we were ranked No.1 again. "It's very disappointing, but the lesson is the things that we can control, we have to control. And we can't relax for a second in Test cricket," Langer added. The ICC rules state that teams are docked two points and fined 20 per cent of their match fee for every over they stay behind the rate. Australia were docked four points and fined 40 per cent of their match fee as they were behind by two overs.

'Very disappointing': Justin Langer rues missing WTC final berth due to major error against India

Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney.

Paine's captaincy has been questioned after he launched an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin and Smith was accused of foul play after appearing to scuff up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during a tense final day.

But an indignant Langer was having none of it.&nbsp;

"Do I have faith in Tim Paine? You have no idea how much faith I have in Tim Paine," he said on a Zoom call.

"He didn't have his best day, no doubt about that, but after three years he has hardly put a hair out of place.

"He has been outstanding as the Australian captain in everything he does. He had a frustrating day and we have got to cut him some slack, surely."

Wicketkeeper Paine, guilty of dropping three catches on the final day, has apologised and admitted frustration got the better of him when he tried to unsettle Ashwin, who held out for more than three hours for an unbeaten 39 as the tourists salvaged a draw.

Stump microphones picked up Paine making a series of barbs, including calling Ashwin a "dickhead".&nbsp;

Paine had already been fined for dissent after an expletive-laden rant at umpire Paul Wilson on day two, with the incidents undermining Langer's drive to revamp the team's toxic culture after the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018.

While backing Paine to continue as captain "for some time yet", Langer also acknowledged criticism would come if anyone deviated from the high standards the team now set themselves.

"When you set a standard as high as he does, and we do, we understand we get criticised when you fall below that. It's not what we are about," he said.

"But Tim is an outstanding leader and will continue to be for some time to come yet. He has my 100 percent support."

<h2>- 'A bit quirky' -</h2>

Footage of Smith, who was Australia's captain during the sandpaper scandal and banned for year, suggested he deliberately interfered with Pant's batting guard -- a mark made at the crease to know where your feet are in relation to the wicket behind you.

The number four is renowned for his quirks, including shadow-batting while fielding, and strongly denied doing anything wrong.

"As for Steve Smith, I literally cannot believe some of the rubbish I've read -- absolute load of rubbish," said Langer.&nbsp;

He took particular aim at England greats Michael Vaughan and Darren Gough, personally phoning them after they criticised Smith.

"I've actually spoken to Darren Gough about it and rang him last night," he told sports radio station SEN.

"I spoke to Michael Vaughan as well, I thought he was out of line actually.&nbsp;

"You get it from (some of the critics), but I don't expect it from (someone like Vaughan)."

He added that Smith was well known for his offbeat habits.

"Anyone who suggests for one millisecond he was trying to do something untoward, they're way out of line," he said.

"On that wicket, that was that flat, and it was like concrete, you'd need 15-inch spikes to make an indent on the crease and he went nowhere near the crease.

"So seriously, I thought that was absolutely ludicrous."

The fourth and final Test gets under way on Friday in Brisbane, with the series locked at 1-1.

Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney.

Australia coach Justin Langer gave under-fire skipper Tim Paine his "100 percent" support and blasted criticism of Steve Smith as "absolute rubbish" Wednesday after a backlash against their behaviour in the drawn third Test against India in Sydney. Paine's captaincy has been questioned after he launched an ugly verbal tirade at India's Ravi Ashwin and Smith was accused of foul play after appearing to scuff up batsman Rishabh Pant's guard at the crease during a tense final day. But an indignant Langer was having none of it. "Do I have faith in Tim Paine? You have no idea how much faith I have in Tim Paine," he said on a Zoom call. "He didn't have his best day, no doubt about that, but after three years he has hardly put a hair out of place. "He has been outstanding as the Australian captain in everything he does. He had a frustrating day and we have got to cut him some slack, surely." Wicketkeeper Paine, guilty of dropping three catches on the final day, has apologised and admitted frustration got the better of him when he tried to unsettle Ashwin, who held out for more than three hours for an unbeaten 39 as the tourists salvaged a draw. Stump microphones picked up Paine making a series of barbs, including calling Ashwin a "dickhead". Paine had already been fined for dissent after an expletive-laden rant at umpire Paul Wilson on day two, with the incidents undermining Langer's drive to revamp the team's toxic culture after the "Sandpaper-gate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018. While backing Paine to continue as captain "for some time yet", Langer also acknowledged criticism would come if anyone deviated from the high standards the team now set themselves. "When you set a standard as high as he does, and we do, we understand we get criticised when you fall below that. It's not what we are about," he said. "But Tim is an outstanding leader and will continue to be for some time to come yet. He has my 100 percent support." - 'A bit quirky' - Footage of Smith, who was Australia's captain during the sandpaper scandal and banned for year, suggested he deliberately interfered with Pant's batting guard -- a mark made at the crease to know where your feet are in relation to the wicket behind you. The number four is renowned for his quirks, including shadow-batting while fielding, and strongly denied doing anything wrong. "As for Steve Smith, I literally cannot believe some of the rubbish I've read -- absolute load of rubbish," said Langer. He took particular aim at England greats Michael Vaughan and Darren Gough, personally phoning them after they criticised Smith. "I've actually spoken to Darren Gough about it and rang him last night," he told sports radio station SEN. "I spoke to Michael Vaughan as well, I thought he was out of line actually. "You get it from (some of the critics), but I don't expect it from (someone like Vaughan)." He added that Smith was well known for his offbeat habits. "Anyone who suggests for one millisecond he was trying to do something untoward, they're way out of line," he said. "On that wicket, that was that flat, and it was like concrete, you'd need 15-inch spikes to make an indent on the crease and he went nowhere near the crease. "So seriously, I thought that was absolutely ludicrous." The fourth and final Test gets under way on Friday in Brisbane, with the series locked at 1-1.

'Absolute rubbish' - Langer goes into bat for Paine, Smith

Australia's opening batsman Will Pucovski's availability for the Gabba Test is in doubt after sustaining shoulder subluxation injury in the Sydney Test. Head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday said that they will 'probably' get to know if the batsman will be ready to play or not.&nbsp;

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"We will probably know tonight I reckon, whether he will be right to go. It will either be a quick turnaround and he is back up and into it, or it might be a few weeks. He is a young guy, he has just played his first Test," Langer said in a virtual press conference on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Langer named Pucovski's replacement (if the player is not deemed fit) for the Gabba Test. According to Langer, Marcus Harris will be replacing the newbie to face India for the final match of the tour.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-batted-the-way-he-shouldve-batted-gautam-gambhir-praises-rishabh-pant-for-his-brave-knock-at-the-scg-356456" hreflang="en">'He batted the way he should've batted': Gautam Gambhir praises Rishabh Pant for his brave knock at the SCG</a>

"So mentally he is going to be exhausted anyway. We will keep an eye on how he pulls up today. With shoulders, as long as he can bat OK and catch - it is not as big a deal in Test cricket, we are really hopeful he will get up. If he does not then the obvious thing is Marcus Harris would come in as the opener," he added.

Australia's world-class bowling unit had a rough day 5 in the Pink Test against India, however, Langer said they (Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc) are expected to be prepared for the final Test of the series.&nbsp;

Langer said: "I expect they will all be ready to go for this Test match. We will see how they pull up."

Australia's opening batsman Will Pucovski's availability for the Gabba Test is in doubt after sustaining shoulder subluxation injury in the Sydney Test. Head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday said that they will 'probably' get to know if the batsman will be ready to play or not.

Australia's opening batsman Will Pucovski's availability for the Gabba Test is in doubt after sustaining shoulder subluxation injury in the Sydney Test. Head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday said that they will 'probably' get to know if the batsman will be ready to play or not. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari shuts down MP Babul Supriyo as Ashwin goes 'ROFLMAX' "We will probably know tonight I reckon, whether he will be right to go. It will either be a quick turnaround and he is back up and into it, or it might be a few weeks. He is a young guy, he has just played his first Test," Langer said in a virtual press conference on Wednesday. Langer named Pucovski's replacement (if the player is not deemed fit) for the Gabba Test. According to Langer, Marcus Harris will be replacing the newbie to face India for the final match of the tour. ALSO READ: 'He batted the way he should've batted': Gautam Gambhir praises Rishabh Pant for his brave knock at the SCG "So mentally he is going to be exhausted anyway. We will keep an eye on how he pulls up today. With shoulders, as long as he can bat OK and catch - it is not as big a deal in Test cricket, we are really hopeful he will get up. If he does not then the obvious thing is Marcus Harris would come in as the opener," he added. Australia's world-class bowling unit had a rough day 5 in the Pink Test against India, however, Langer said they (Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc) are expected to be prepared for the final Test of the series. Langer said: "I expect they will all be ready to go for this Test match. We will see how they pull up."

'The obvious thing': Head coach Justin Langer names Will Pucovski's potential replacement

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.&nbsp;

With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman.&nbsp;

Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-india-resume-arm-wrestle-as-covid-dominates-test-build-up-354543" hreflang="en">Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up</a>

Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs.

Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australians-are-bad-losers-former-india-spinner-tears-apart-hosts-over-bio-bubble-controversy-354405" hreflang="en">'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy</a>

Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is."

Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career.

Steve Smith dominated Test cricket in the last decade but for the Aussie batsman, the last few Test matches have been nothing short of nightmare. Smith, in the ongoing Test series against India, has registered scores of 1, 1*, 0 and 8 as he witnesses a lean patch in his formidable batting career. With Australia hoping that Smith returns back to his best in the last two Tests against Australia, head coach Justin Langer said that that it is about time Smith returns back to form while adding he never coaches the star Aussie batsman. Langer said that Smith coaches himself while adding that he is going to work it and get out of the lean patch he is facing in his illustrious Test career. ALSO READ: Australia, India resume 'arm-wrestle' as Covid dominates Test build-up Smith, who has had a superb record against India, suffered a dip in form after consecutive centuries in the three-match ODI series against India. With Australia looking to bounce back in the series after losing out in the Boxing Day Test, the hosts would be looking towards their talisman - Smith - for big runs. Langer, in the virtual press conference, said "Imagine how good we will be when he does start batting - that's how I look at it. He hasn't had the best of series so far. He will be the first to admit that. My gosh, what I know about great players, the longer they miss out, the sooner they are coming good again. That puts a big smile on my face. How do you coach Steve? I don't coach Steve Smith. Steve Smith coaches himself and I am sure he is going to work it out." ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy Langer added, "Steve is always hitting a lot of balls. He did a lot leading up to it [MCG Test] but, again, there is nothing, even for the greatest of players, there is nothing that replaces time in the middle. And we know what a great problem solver he is, we know what a great player he is." Australia, after winning the Adelaide Test in sensational fashion, was brought back to the earth by a resilient Indian team as they won the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to equalise the series 1-1. But now both India and Australia would be eyeing an unassailable 2-1 lead in Sydney.

Steve Smith coaches himself: Justin Langer confident of star batsman returning to form

Australia plan to stick with the same XI for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, coach Justin Langer said Thursday as he warned Virat Kohli's absence will put India at a big disadvantage.

With star batsman David Warner again ruled out injured, under-pressure opener Joe Burns, who scored a handy 51 not out in their second innings during the first Test at Adelaide, is set to keep his place at the top of the order.

Makeshift opener Matthew Wade is expected again to accompany him, with young allrounder Cameron Green retaining his spot in the middle order.

"I'd be a pretty courageous man to change the XI for this Test match after the last one," said Langer.

"So at this stage, unless something happens over the next few days, and it can happen in the world we live in, we'll go in with the same XI, I'd say."

Australia won the opening Test by eight wickets inside three days after India humiliatingly collapsed to be all out for just 36 in their second innings -- their lowest Test score.

Compounding their problems, captain Kohli will miss the next three Tests to be at the birth of his first child, while star paceman Mohammed Shami is also expected to be absent after reportedly fracturing his wrist.

Langer said Kohli's no-show at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where up to 30,000 fans a day will be allowed, around one-third of capacity, was great news for Australia.

"Virat Kohli is one of the all-time great players and Shami I think is a real glue for the Indian bowling attack, because he's so miserly, he's very, very skilful," he said.

"So of course it gives us an advantage. But we just know we have to keep working hard in the all the processes we've been talking about for some time.

"We know we have to start strongly on day one, we know we need to keep the pressure on (Ajinkya) Rahane if he is the new captain.

"So our processes don't change, but when you take the best players out of any cricket team, then of course it weakens them, that is just reality, and it gives us an advantage."

Australia (probable): Joe Burns, Matthew Wade, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Australia plan to stick with the same XI for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, coach Justin Langer said Thursday as he warned Virat Kohli's absence will put India at a big disadvantage.

Australia plan to stick with the same XI for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, coach Justin Langer said Thursday as he warned Virat Kohli's absence will put India at a big disadvantage. With star batsman David Warner again ruled out injured, under-pressure opener Joe Burns, who scored a handy 51 not out in their second innings during the first Test at Adelaide, is set to keep his place at the top of the order. Makeshift opener Matthew Wade is expected again to accompany him, with young allrounder Cameron Green retaining his spot in the middle order. "I'd be a pretty courageous man to change the XI for this Test match after the last one," said Langer. "So at this stage, unless something happens over the next few days, and it can happen in the world we live in, we'll go in with the same XI, I'd say." Australia won the opening Test by eight wickets inside three days after India humiliatingly collapsed to be all out for just 36 in their second innings -- their lowest Test score. Compounding their problems, captain Kohli will miss the next three Tests to be at the birth of his first child, while star paceman Mohammed Shami is also expected to be absent after reportedly fracturing his wrist. Langer said Kohli's no-show at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, where up to 30,000 fans a day will be allowed, around one-third of capacity, was great news for Australia. "Virat Kohli is one of the all-time great players and Shami I think is a real glue for the Indian bowling attack, because he's so miserly, he's very, very skilful," he said. "So of course it gives us an advantage. But we just know we have to keep working hard in the all the processes we've been talking about for some time. "We know we have to start strongly on day one, we know we need to keep the pressure on (Ajinkya) Rahane if he is the new captain. "So our processes don't change, but when you take the best players out of any cricket team, then of course it weakens them, that is just reality, and it gives us an advantage." Australia (probable): Joe Burns, Matthew Wade, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Tim Paine (capt), Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Australia set to be unchanged for Boxing Day India Test: Langer

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings.

"None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference.

Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-will-go-out-new-faces-will-come-in-but-what-about-mr-ravi-shastri-351379" hreflang="en">Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri?</a>

"You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said.

"...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said.

"....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/different-rules-for-different-people-gavaskar-questions-team-management-on-why-natarajan-was-not-given-paternity-leave-351862" hreflang="en">'Different rules for different people': Gavaskar questions team management on why Natarajan was not given paternity leave</a>

Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress. A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings. "None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference. Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? "You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said. "...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said. "....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said. ALSO READ: 'Different rules for different people': Gavaskar questions team management on why Natarajan was not given paternity leave Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher.

A swashbuckling Pandya struck 42 not out off 22 balls as he finished what Shikhar Dhawan had set out to achieve with a scintillating 36-ball 52 to set up India's series-clinching six-wicket win.

"It was an incredible spectacle of a game. We know how dangerous he (Pandya) is. In the past we had MS Dhoni and the way he (Pandya) played today," Langer said at the virtual post-match press conference.

"He has played really well all summer so, obviously it was a great innings in the end there,"&nbsp;Langer admitted that India were too good for his side with a lot of experienced T20 players in their ranks.&nbsp;

"I thought the whole game was a very close one. Our fielding was absolutely incredible, it was electric to watch, but India with their experienced T20 players were too good for us today," said the Australia coach.

Virat Kohli also played a part in India's win with 40 runs off 24 balls and Langer praised the India captain for some "extraordinary" shots he played on Sunday. ?Some of Virat (Kohli's) shots, I have said for years he (Kohli) is the best player I have probably ever seen. Some of the shots he played tonight were extraordinary and (they got) good opening partnership and got over the line,"&nbsp;the former Australia opening batsman said.

According to Langer, his side thought they had enough runs on the board to defend and India had to bat really well to win the match. "I am proud of my players. It was a great spectacle, on a Sunday night India versus Australia, it got so close, it was a really exciting game. We batted really well, had enough runs and thought India would have to bat really well."

Langer also had words of praise for his leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson, who returned with figures of 1-25. ?I thought Mitch (Mitchell) Swepson bowled really well, he was excellent tonight and served the value of playing two leg-spinner bowlers. Mitch bowled well, (also) took a couple of catches, he has had a really good performance. "And Matthew Wade batted beautifully at the top of the order, Steve Smith also batted well, so plenty of good contributions, what stood out to me was the athleticism in the field.

"Didn't quite get us there, but we certainly had our chances to win the game like most of the games we have played ... Since the England (tour)." Talking about stand-in-skipper Matthew Wade, Langer said, "He did a really good job, mixed the bowling around well, that catch to get Virat out was an excellent catch. He had a good game."

The third T20 International will be telecast live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Six channels on Tuesday from 12.30pm.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher.

Australia coach Justin Langer on Sunday described India all-rounder Hardik Pandya's match-winning innings in the second T20 International as an "incredible spectacle" and likened him to former captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni as a finisher. A swashbuckling Pandya struck 42 not out off 22 balls as he finished what Shikhar Dhawan had set out to achieve with a scintillating 36-ball 52 to set up India's series-clinching six-wicket win. "It was an incredible spectacle of a game. We know how dangerous he (Pandya) is. In the past we had MS Dhoni and the way he (Pandya) played today," Langer said at the virtual post-match press conference. "He has played really well all summer so, obviously it was a great innings in the end there," Langer admitted that India were too good for his side with a lot of experienced T20 players in their ranks. "I thought the whole game was a very close one. Our fielding was absolutely incredible, it was electric to watch, but India with their experienced T20 players were too good for us today," said the Australia coach. Virat Kohli also played a part in India's win with 40 runs off 24 balls and Langer praised the India captain for some "extraordinary" shots he played on Sunday. ?Some of Virat (Kohli's) shots, I have said for years he (Kohli) is the best player I have probably ever seen. Some of the shots he played tonight were extraordinary and (they got) good opening partnership and got over the line," the former Australia opening batsman said. According to Langer, his side thought they had enough runs on the board to defend and India had to bat really well to win the match. "I am proud of my players. It was a great spectacle, on a Sunday night India versus Australia, it got so close, it was a really exciting game. We batted really well, had enough runs and thought India would have to bat really well." Langer also had words of praise for his leg-spinner Mitchell Swepson, who returned with figures of 1-25. ?I thought Mitch (Mitchell) Swepson bowled really well, he was excellent tonight and served the value of playing two leg-spinner bowlers. Mitch bowled well, (also) took a couple of catches, he has had a really good performance. "And Matthew Wade batted beautifully at the top of the order, Steve Smith also batted well, so plenty of good contributions, what stood out to me was the athleticism in the field. "Didn't quite get us there, but we certainly had our chances to win the game like most of the games we have played ... Since the England (tour)." Talking about stand-in-skipper Matthew Wade, Langer said, "He did a really good job, mixed the bowling around well, that catch to get Virat out was an excellent catch. He had a good game." The third T20 International will be telecast live on Sony Ten 1, Sony Ten 3 and Sony Six channels on Tuesday from 12.30pm.

'Incredible spectacle': Langer impressed with Pandya's Dhoni-like finishing skills

Australian head coach Justin Langer blew up at match referee David Boon for India’s usage of concussion substitute. Star Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal replaced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after the latter suffered a concussion after the completion of India’s innings in the first T20I against Australia at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on Friday.&nbsp;

As per rules, the match referee is the final official to approve the concussion substitute after consultation with medical staff. The BCCI medical team came to the conclusion that Jadeja suffered a concussion and as India didn’t have any other all-rounder in the team and Jadeja regularly bowls four overs for India in T20Is, the match referee approved the decision to field Chahal as a substitute to Jadeja.

Lander was seen having a heated conversation with Boon before the start of the second innings after Jadeja was struck on the helmet on the second ball of the final over of the first innings from Mitchell Starc.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-1st-t20i-chahal-jadejas-killer-blow-help-india-win-by-11-runs-347517" hreflang="en">Aus vs Ind 1st T20I: Chahal, Jadeja's killer blow help India win by 11 runs</a>

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It took four matches but the summer has had its first blow up... 
 
It was between Justin Langer and match referee David Boon 😱😱😱 DETAILS &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://t.co/O4Cw2RrWEQ">https://t.co/O4Cw2RrWEQ</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/MUS3PT0Ogp">pic.twitter.com/MUS3PT0Ogp</a>
— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxCricket/status/1334809935230586881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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An over earlier, Jadeja had suffered an injury to his right that suggested he could be out of bowling in the Australian innings, making Chahal a perfect replacement for Jadeja.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-is-carrying-a-timid-mindset-and-lack-aggressive-approach-says-michael-vaughan-347509" hreflang="en">'Team India is carrying a ‘timid mindset’ and lack aggressive approach', says Michael Vaughan</a>

<h2>Concussion replacements are strange: Virat Kohli</h2>

“There were no plans of having Yuzi in the game. Concussion replacements are a strange thing. Today, it worked for us. Yuzi showed character to squeeze the opponents. I thought they had a great start. They were cruising. The batters offered us a few wickets. That is T20 cricket for you,” Indian skipper Kohli said after the match.

<h2>Can't challenge medical experts: Finch</h2>

“Their doctor had ruled Jadeja out due to concussion. You can't be challenging a medical expert's opinion,” Australian captain Finch said.

Notably, Jadeja didn’t undergo concussion test after he was hit on the helmet by Starc and was only evaluated after the end of innings. However, ICC regulations permit concussion test to be conducted at the end of the over, which happened in this case – the end of innings. There are suggestions that Jadeja probably suffered a delayed concussion.

“Should he have had a concussion test there and then?” Mark Waugh said on Fox Cricket. “He would not have been able to bat.”

“You would think the Australian management would be saying wouldn’t there be protocols that need to be met to make that judgement,” Gilchrist added. “Because he scored the lion’s share of his runs after that.”

“You can’t have it both ways,” Waugh said. “You can’t have a substitute who can then bowl for you and then bat on.”

“No doctor or physio came out to test Jadeja for concussion... he then looks like his [sic] has done something to his leg... then they pull the concussion replacement!!! #RatSniffed,” former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted.

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No Doctor or Physio came out to Test Jadeja for concussion ... he then looks like his has done something to his leg ... then they pull the concussion replacement .. !!!!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RatSniffed?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RatSniffed</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OnOn?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OnOn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1334811533973594112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Indian leggie continued to torment the Aussie batters as he went on to dismiss Aaron Finch, Steve Smith and Matthew Wade.&nbsp;

The second T20I of the match will be played on Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 
&nbsp;

Australian head coach Justin Langer blew up at match referee David Boon for India’s usage of concussion substitute. Star Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal replaced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after the latter suffered a concussion after the completion of India’s innings in the first T20I against Australia at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on Friday.

Australian head coach Justin Langer blew up at match referee David Boon for India’s usage of concussion substitute. Star Indian spinner Yuzvendra Chahal replaced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja after the latter suffered a concussion after the completion of India’s innings in the first T20I against Australia at the Manuka Oval in Canberra on Friday. As per rules, the match referee is the final official to approve the concussion substitute after consultation with medical staff. The BCCI medical team came to the conclusion that Jadeja suffered a concussion and as India didn’t have any other all-rounder in the team and Jadeja regularly bowls four overs for India in T20Is, the match referee approved the decision to field Chahal as a substitute to Jadeja. Lander was seen having a heated conversation with Boon before the start of the second innings after Jadeja was struck on the helmet on the second ball of the final over of the first innings from Mitchell Starc. ALSO READ: Aus vs Ind 1st T20I: Chahal, Jadeja's killer blow help India win by 11 runs It took four matches but the summer has had its first blow up... It was between Justin Langer and match referee David Boon 😱😱😱 DETAILS >>> https://t.co/O4Cw2RrWEQ #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/MUS3PT0Ogp — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) December 4, 2020 × An over earlier, Jadeja had suffered an injury to his right that suggested he could be out of bowling in the Australian innings, making Chahal a perfect replacement for Jadeja. ALSO READ: 'Team India is carrying a ‘timid mindset’ and lack aggressive approach', says Michael Vaughan Concussion replacements are strange: Virat Kohli “There were no plans of having Yuzi in the game. Concussion replacements are a strange thing. Today, it worked for us. Yuzi showed character to squeeze the opponents. I thought they had a great start. They were cruising. The batters offered us a few wickets. That is T20 cricket for you,” Indian skipper Kohli said after the match. Can't challenge medical experts: Finch “Their doctor had ruled Jadeja out due to concussion. You can't be challenging a medical expert's opinion,” Australian captain Finch said. Notably, Jadeja didn’t undergo concussion test after he was hit on the helmet by Starc and was only evaluated after the end of innings. However, ICC regulations permit concussion test to be conducted at the end of the over, which happened in this case – the end of innings. There are suggestions that Jadeja probably suffered a delayed concussion. “Should he have had a concussion test there and then?” Mark Waugh said on Fox Cricket. “He would not have been able to bat.” “You would think the Australian management would be saying wouldn’t there be protocols that need to be met to make that judgement,” Gilchrist added. “Because he scored the lion’s share of his runs after that.” “You can’t have it both ways,” Waugh said. “You can’t have a substitute who can then bowl for you and then bat on.” “No doctor or physio came out to test Jadeja for concussion... he then looks like his [sic] has done something to his leg... then they pull the concussion replacement!!! #RatSniffed,” former England captain Michael Vaughan tweeted. No Doctor or Physio came out to Test Jadeja for concussion ... he then looks like his has done something to his leg ... then they pull the concussion replacement .. !!!!! #RatSniffed #OnOn #AUSvIND — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) December 4, 2020 × The Indian leggie continued to torment the Aussie batters as he went on to dismiss Aaron Finch, Steve Smith and Matthew Wade. The second T20I of the match will be played on Sunday at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Justin Langer gets into altercation with match referee over controversial concussion sub

Australia head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday hinted that opener Joe Burns is set to continue as David Warner’s partner in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India despite calls from former Aussie cricketers and pundits for Will Pucovski to replace him.

Pucovski was named in the Test squad after consecutive double centuries in Sheffield Shield to start the season. Whereas Burns, who has re-established himself as Warner’s opening partner, struggled.

Langer while praising Pucovski said that he might need to bide his time during the Australian summer.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-kl-rahul-opens-up-about-his-batting-position-leadership-role-in-indian-team-345310" hreflang="en">IND vs AUS: KL Rahul opens up about his batting position, leadership role in Indian team</a>

<h2>Will Pucovski ready to play test cricket: Justin Langer</h2>

“We think very, very highly of Will,” Langer told reporters on a conference call on Wednesday.

“When the opportunity comes, he’s ready to play test cricket. The opportunity hopefully will come for him at some point, whether it’s this series or a series to come.”

Langer added that Pucovski could come into the playing XI in the middle order – a similar path taken by former skipper Ricky Ponting.&nbsp;

“For Will, it’s about where the opportunities come,” Langer added. “For the last 30 years it’s been drummed into me if you can bat top three in Shield cricket, you can bat anywhere.

“Someone like Will, who’s opening the batting for Victoria and has batted three, it gives him the flexibility to bat anywhere.”

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Langer further said that Steve Smith will be back in the team for their limited-overs series against India after missing the ODI series in England due to concussion.&nbsp;

Smith’s return is giving headaches to selectors, who are keen to go with a seam-bowling all-rounder even though Mitchell Marsh’s ankle injury has opened up a spot for a batsman.

“In England, we had Mitch Marsh, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell able to get us at least 10 overs,” Langer said. 
“So we like that combination, the extra all-rounder.

“Obviously Steve will come straight back in and there are some headaches but they’re good headaches.” 
&nbsp;

Australia head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday hinted that opener Joe Burns is set to continue as David Warner’s partner in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India despite calls from former Aussie cricketers and pundits for Will Pucovski to replace him.

Australia head coach Justin Langer on Wednesday hinted that opener Joe Burns is set to continue as David Warner’s partner in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series against India despite calls from former Aussie cricketers and pundits for Will Pucovski to replace him. Pucovski was named in the Test squad after consecutive double centuries in Sheffield Shield to start the season. Whereas Burns, who has re-established himself as Warner’s opening partner, struggled. Langer while praising Pucovski said that he might need to bide his time during the Australian summer. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: KL Rahul opens up about his batting position, leadership role in Indian team Will Pucovski ready to play test cricket: Justin Langer “We think very, very highly of Will,” Langer told reporters on a conference call on Wednesday. “When the opportunity comes, he’s ready to play test cricket. The opportunity hopefully will come for him at some point, whether it’s this series or a series to come.” Langer added that Pucovski could come into the playing XI in the middle order – a similar path taken by former skipper Ricky Ponting. “For Will, it’s about where the opportunities come,” Langer added. “For the last 30 years it’s been drummed into me if you can bat top three in Shield cricket, you can bat anywhere. “Someone like Will, who’s opening the batting for Victoria and has batted three, it gives him the flexibility to bat anywhere.” ALSO READ: ICC Awards of The Decade announced - Check voting rules, nominations Langer further said that Steve Smith will be back in the team for their limited-overs series against India after missing the ODI series in England due to concussion. Smith’s return is giving headaches to selectors, who are keen to go with a seam-bowling all-rounder even though Mitchell Marsh’s ankle injury has opened up a spot for a batsman. “In England, we had Mitch Marsh, Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell able to get us at least 10 overs,” Langer said. “So we like that combination, the extra all-rounder. “Obviously Steve will come straight back in and there are some headaches but they’re good headaches.”

Australia rate Will Pucovski highly but he may need to bide his time: Justin Langer

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-to-hate-him-but-we-also-love-to-australias-tim-paine-on-virat-kohli-343113" hreflang="en">'We love to hate him but we also love to..': Australia's Tim Paine on Virat Kohli</a>

Indian team, led by Virat Kohli, registered their names in the history books as they beat Australia on their soil to register their first Test series win Down Under in 71 years. Australia, in that series, were playing without Steve Smith and David Warner. However, India managed to beat the Aussies despite their lethal pace attack.&nbsp;

"If I go back to that time (2018-19), we lost a toss at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) after winning the Perth Test match - lost the toss on possibly the flattest wicket I’ve seen in Test cricket... and they (India) bowled for nearly two days," Langer was quoted as saying by The Age newspaper.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-player-ive-ever-seen-in-my-life-aussie-coach-justin-langer-praises-this-indian-batsman-342905">'Best player I’ve ever seen in my life': Aussie coach Justin Langer praises this Indian batsman</a>

"And then we had to back it up and play at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) the next Test match on a pretty flat wicket as well."

"Not making excuses, but it was tough going back then. India were on top of their game, they deserved to beat us for the first time in their history. But our guys are two years better and a lot of the Indians are the same, more experienced. I can’t wait to see them go. Can’t wait," Langer added.

Earlier, Australia coach Justin Langer had said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests.

"I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call.

Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take paternity leave to be with his wife.&nbsp;

"I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)."

"He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do," the former Australia opener added.

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series.

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series. Also read: 'We love to hate him but we also love to..': Australia's Tim Paine on Virat Kohli Indian team, led by Virat Kohli, registered their names in the history books as they beat Australia on their soil to register their first Test series win Down Under in 71 years. Australia, in that series, were playing without Steve Smith and David Warner. However, India managed to beat the Aussies despite their lethal pace attack. "If I go back to that time (2018-19), we lost a toss at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) after winning the Perth Test match - lost the toss on possibly the flattest wicket I’ve seen in Test cricket... and they (India) bowled for nearly two days," Langer was quoted as saying by The Age newspaper. Also read: 'Best player I’ve ever seen in my life': Aussie coach Justin Langer praises this Indian batsman "And then we had to back it up and play at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) the next Test match on a pretty flat wicket as well." "Not making excuses, but it was tough going back then. India were on top of their game, they deserved to beat us for the first time in their history. But our guys are two years better and a lot of the Indians are the same, more experienced. I can’t wait to see them go. Can’t wait," Langer added. Earlier, Australia coach Justin Langer had said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests. "I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call. Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take paternity leave to be with his wife. "I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)." "He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do," the former Australia opener added.

'India were on top of their game', Aussie coach Justin Langer on 2018-19 Test series defeat

India is set to take on its fiercest rivals Australia in a full-fledged tour that begins on November 27.&nbsp;

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Last time India toured Australia, they created history after beating the Aussies 2-1 in Tests. However, the equation has changed this year as Steve Smith and David Warner have returned and Virat Kohli will be missing out on most the Test series due to paternity leave.&nbsp;

Kohli's absence has turned the odds in the favour of the hosts as India skipper was leading run-getter during the 2014/15 series with 692 runs and the second leading run-scorer in 2018-19 series with 292 runs.

Australia coach Justin Langer said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests.

"I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call.

"It’s not only his batting but his energy, his passion for the game, the way he fields. I cannot believe the energy he displays in everything he does. Are we happy he’s not playing? It’s like taking Dustin Martin out of Richmond, isn’t it?" added Langer.

Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take a paternity leave to be with his wife.&nbsp;

"I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)."

"He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do,"&nbsp;the former Australia opener added.

India is set to take on its fiercest rivals Australia in a full-fledged tour that begins on November 27. Also read: Injury-plagued Brazil suffer big blow as Neymar ruled out of World Cup qualifiers Last time India toured Australia, they created history after beating the Aussies 2-1 in Tests.

India is set to take on its fiercest rivals Australia in a full-fledged tour that begins on November 27. Also read: Injury-plagued Brazil suffer big blow as Neymar ruled out of World Cup qualifiers Last time India toured Australia, they created history after beating the Aussies 2-1 in Tests. However, the equation has changed this year as Steve Smith and David Warner have returned and Virat Kohli will be missing out on most the Test series due to paternity leave. Kohli's absence has turned the odds in the favour of the hosts as India skipper was leading run-getter during the 2014/15 series with 692 runs and the second leading run-scorer in 2018-19 series with 292 runs. Australia coach Justin Langer said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests. "I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call. "It’s not only his batting but his energy, his passion for the game, the way he fields. I cannot believe the energy he displays in everything he does. Are we happy he’s not playing? It’s like taking Dustin Martin out of Richmond, isn’t it?" added Langer. Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take a paternity leave to be with his wife. "I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)." "He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do," the former Australia opener added.

'Best player I’ve ever seen in my life': Aussie coach Justin Langer praises this Indian batsman

Australia are all set to lock horns in a limited-overs series consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs starting from September 4. While England have already played both red-ball and white-ball series, Australia will take to field after break of almost six months. Ahead of the much-awaited T20I series, Australian coach Justin Langer said that the visitors are ready to take on an in-form England outfit.&nbsp;

Australia have already played two intra-squad warm-up matches in Southampton with Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey smashing quickfire centuries in the second match.

“England are dangerous. I watched the way Eoin Morgan plays. It’s exciting to watch, he comes out and smacks it from ball one,” Langer told a news conference on Wednesday.

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“They have got some good young players, and they’ve brought in some of their more experienced players. We know they have been the best one day team in the world for a few years now.

“We came here two years ago and got smashed 5-0 and came here last year and won two of the three but didn’t win the big one in the (World Cup) semi-final. We know what to expect and we will be ready for it.”

Langer was full of praise for Labuschagne as he watched the youngster smoke Pat Cummins all over the park while terming Aaron Finch and David Warner as best opening pair in limited-overs cricket.&nbsp;

“Labuschagne’s innings was absolutely sublime; it was brilliant to watch. He was hitting Pat Cummins, the world’s best, over point for six,” Langer said.

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“All we can ask for is that guys bang so hard they are putting pressure on the guys in there.

“At the moment they (Aaron Finch and David Warner) are the best opening combination in the world in T20 and one-day cricket. When you have Steve Smith, the best batsman in the world, and best opening combination, it’s hard to break into that. But hardcore competition is what we’ve based our success on.”

Australia are all set to lock horns in a limited-overs series consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs starting from September 4. While England have already played both red-ball and white-ball series, Australia will take to field after break of almost six months.

Australia are all set to lock horns in a limited-overs series consisting of three T20Is and as many ODIs starting from September 4. While England have already played both red-ball and white-ball series, Australia will take to field after break of almost six months. Ahead of the much-awaited T20I series, Australian coach Justin Langer said that the visitors are ready to take on an in-form England outfit. Australia have already played two intra-squad warm-up matches in Southampton with Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey smashing quickfire centuries in the second match. “England are dangerous. I watched the way Eoin Morgan plays. It’s exciting to watch, he comes out and smacks it from ball one,” Langer told a news conference on Wednesday. ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Mumbai Indians sign Australia's James Pattinson as Lasith Malinga's replacement “They have got some good young players, and they’ve brought in some of their more experienced players. We know they have been the best one day team in the world for a few years now. “We came here two years ago and got smashed 5-0 and came here last year and won two of the three but didn’t win the big one in the (World Cup) semi-final. We know what to expect and we will be ready for it.” Langer was full of praise for Labuschagne as he watched the youngster smoke Pat Cummins all over the park while terming Aaron Finch and David Warner as best opening pair in limited-overs cricket. “Labuschagne’s innings was absolutely sublime; it was brilliant to watch. He was hitting Pat Cummins, the world’s best, over point for six,” Langer said. ALSO READ: Exclusive | Marnus Labuschagne: Thriving to be the best “All we can ask for is that guys bang so hard they are putting pressure on the guys in there. “At the moment they (Aaron Finch and David Warner) are the best opening combination in the world in T20 and one-day cricket. When you have Steve Smith, the best batsman in the world, and best opening combination, it’s hard to break into that. But hardcore competition is what we’ve based our success on.”

England are dangerous but Australia are ready: Justin Langer

Australian head coach Justin Langer said there is a “good chance” the Aussies will visit England later this year for a limited-overs series against Eoin Morgan and Co. With Langer’s plan to touch optimum fitness and form by early September, the home ODI series against Zimbabwe is in major doubt.&nbsp;

Australia were scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is in England from July 3 to 16 but the rubber was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Former Cricket Australia CEO, who resigned earlier this week, had talked about the idea of touring in September if health protocols and bio-security concerns could be addressed.

International cricket will be back to life next month when England face the West Indies for a three-match Test series with the games to be played in bio-secure venues, without crowds.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-2011-world-cup-final-fixed-kumar-sangakkara-mahela-jayawardene-respond-to-shocking-claims-by-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-306812" hreflang="en">Was 2011 World Cup final fixed? Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene respond to shocking claims by former Sri Lanka sports minister</a>

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2011-final-was-fixed-former-sri-lanka-sports-minister-comes-up-with-shocking-claim-306797" hreflang="en">'World Cup 2011 final was fixed': Former Sri Lanka Sports Minister comes up with shocking claim</a>

If the series against the Windies is successful then Australia could follow Pakistan to visit England during the end of English summer.&nbsp;

<h2>I would think there is a good chance: Justin Langer</h2>

"If you were to ask me two weeks ago if we were to go to England, I would have said there is no chance," Langer said at a press conference in Perth on Thursday.

"Standing here now, I would think there is a good chance.

"As important as it is for India to come to Australia, the Australian cricket team to go and play cricket in England would be equally as important for English cricket."

The Zimbabwe series is in major doubt due to Australia’s international border still closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

The likely postponement of the T20 World Cup and the future of IPL being uncertain, the approaching six months could become extremely crucial for cricket in general.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Australian head coach Justin Langer said there is a “good chance” the Aussies will visit England later this year for a limited-overs series against Eoin Morgan and Co.

Australian head coach Justin Langer said there is a “good chance” the Aussies will visit England later this year for a limited-overs series against Eoin Morgan and Co. With Langer’s plan to touch optimum fitness and form by early September, the home ODI series against Zimbabwe is in major doubt. Australia were scheduled to play three ODIs and as many T20Is in England from July 3 to 16 but the rubber was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Former Cricket Australia CEO, who resigned earlier this week, had talked about the idea of touring in September if health protocols and bio-security concerns could be addressed. International cricket will be back to life next month when England face the West Indies for a three-match Test series with the games to be played in bio-secure venues, without crowds. ALSO READ: Was 2011 World Cup final fixed? Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene respond to shocking claims by former Sri Lanka sports minister ALSO READ: 'World Cup 2011 final was fixed': Former Sri Lanka Sports Minister comes up with shocking claim If the series against the Windies is successful then Australia could follow Pakistan to visit England during the end of English summer. I would think there is a good chance: Justin Langer "If you were to ask me two weeks ago if we were to go to England, I would have said there is no chance," Langer said at a press conference in Perth on Thursday. "Standing here now, I would think there is a good chance. "As important as it is for India to come to Australia, the Australian cricket team to go and play cricket in England would be equally as important for English cricket." The Zimbabwe series is in major doubt due to Australia’s international border still closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The likely postponement of the T20 World Cup and the future of IPL being uncertain, the approaching six months could become extremely crucial for cricket in general.

"Good chance" - Australian coach Justin Langer upbeat about England tour

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format.

Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`.

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"We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying.

"What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added.

South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively.

Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer.

"No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added.

Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

&nbsp;

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13. The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`. Also Read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session "We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying. "What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added. South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively. Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer. "No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added. Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

'Dhoni is a master of white-ball finisher': Justin Langer

Former middle-order batsman Mike Hussey has been drafted in by Australian coach Justin Langer to help mentor the side during their upcoming Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

He is the latest great to be brought into the fold after Ricky Ponting joined the backroom staff at the one-day World Cup this year and Steve Waugh helped out during the Ashes series in England.

"I'm very excited actually. I'm really looking forward to getting back in around the Aussie team," Hussey, who is nicknamed "Mr Cricket", told the Sydney Daily Telegraph on Sunday.

"They are going to be trying to get strategies in place, develop a style of play and what players they want and I love all that stuff -- planning for a big event.

"They have floated the possibility of being involved closer to the T20 World Cup (in Australia next year) as well but it's all pretty loose at the moment."

Australia plays back-to-back three-game T20 series against Sri Lanka and then Pakistan starting next Sunday in Adelaide to kick off their summer season.

Langer has also made former Test speedster Ryan Harris bowling coach for the series.

He told the newspaper the presence of Ponting, Waugh and now Hussey was enormous for his team.

"I can't tell you how influential these guys can be on the group," said Langer.

"It's nice to have different voices and different eyes and see guys of that calibre giving us feedback on what they see."

<hr />

Former middle-order batsman Mike Hussey has been drafted in by Australian coach Justin Langer to help mentor the side during their upcoming Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

Former middle-order batsman Mike Hussey has been drafted in by Australian coach Justin Langer to help mentor the side during their upcoming Twenty20 series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. He is the latest great to be brought into the fold after Ricky Ponting joined the backroom staff at the one-day World Cup this year and Steve Waugh helped out during the Ashes series in England. "I'm very excited actually. I'm really looking forward to getting back in around the Aussie team," Hussey, who is nicknamed "Mr Cricket", told the Sydney Daily Telegraph on Sunday. "They are going to be trying to get strategies in place, develop a style of play and what players they want and I love all that stuff -- planning for a big event. "They have floated the possibility of being involved closer to the T20 World Cup (in Australia next year) as well but it's all pretty loose at the moment." Australia plays back-to-back three-game T20 series against Sri Lanka and then Pakistan starting next Sunday in Adelaide to kick off their summer season. Langer has also made former Test speedster Ryan Harris bowling coach for the series. He told the newspaper the presence of Ponting, Waugh and now Hussey was enormous for his team. "I can't tell you how influential these guys can be on the group," said Langer. "It's nice to have different voices and different eyes and see guys of that calibre giving us feedback on what they see."

Mike Hussey joins Australia staff for Sri Lanka, Pakistan series

Australia coach Justin Langer has urged the struggling batsmen in his team to step up and deliver when the final Ashes Test against England starts at The Oval on Thursday.

Australia took an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-Test series following their 185-run win in the fourth Test at Old Trafford and now have the chance to wrap up their first series win in England since 2001, when Steve Waugh's men won 4-1.

The performances of Steve Smith, with an astronomical average of 134.2, and Marnus Labuschagne, combined with a strong showing from the bowlers, have minimised the impact of failures from the other specialist batsmen during the series.

Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Usman Khawaja, Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner have all been posted missing, with experienced opening batsman Warner the worst of the lot with an average of 9.87.

While safe in the knowledge that England cannot win the Ashes, Langer said Australia would not be easing off in the fifth Test.

"You've still got to perform, as an Australian Test cricketer," he told reporters.

"Whether or not winning the Ashes will make a difference, time will tell, but you've still got to perform whether you are young or a veteran."

With 671 runs from three Tests, Smith has carried the Australian batting on his shoulders with some support from Labuschagne, who has an average of 58.2 in the series.

Langer called for patience with the young batters in the side.

"He (Smith) has done a lot for Australian cricket for the last few years actually, and so has Dave Warner," Langer said.

"But we've also got to remember, Travis Head is new to Test cricket, Marnus (Labuschagne) is new to Test cricket, Marcus Harris is new to Test cricket, Cameron Bancroft is new to Test cricket.

"You can't just give them that experience, they've got to earn that and we're very thankful to have Steve batting. We're lucky to have him but Test cricket takes time. We've got to respect that, it takes a lot of time."

While his batsmen have been misfiring, Langer has no such problems with his fast bowling unit.

Pat Cummins has played all four Tests and is the pick of the fast bowlers with 24 wickets while Josh Hazlewood has taken 18 from three.

The touring side have James Pattinson and Peter Siddle with two Tests each under their belt in the series, and the uncapped Michael Neser is also an option.

"We've James Pattinson literally jumping out of his skin to play the next Test," Langer said. "Peter Siddle, in those first two Tests, was probably the standout bowler, a great professional and a ripping person to have in the team.

"It'll be fascinating to see how they (Cummins and Hazlewood) pull up ... whatever happens we're lucky to have a couple of other guys who are raring to go if we need them."

Australia coach Justin Langer has urged the struggling batsmen in his team to step up and deliver when the final Ashes Test against England starts at The Oval on Thursday.

Australia coach Justin Langer has urged the struggling batsmen in his team to step up and deliver when the final Ashes Test against England starts at The Oval on Thursday. Australia took an unassailable 2-1 lead in the five-Test series following their 185-run win in the fourth Test at Old Trafford and now have the chance to wrap up their first series win in England since 2001, when Steve Waugh's men won 4-1. The performances of Steve Smith, with an astronomical average of 134.2, and Marnus Labuschagne, combined with a strong showing from the bowlers, have minimised the impact of failures from the other specialist batsmen during the series. Travis Head, Matthew Wade, Usman Khawaja, Marcus Harris, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner have all been posted missing, with experienced opening batsman Warner the worst of the lot with an average of 9.87. While safe in the knowledge that England cannot win the Ashes, Langer said Australia would not be easing off in the fifth Test. "You've still got to perform, as an Australian Test cricketer," he told reporters. "Whether or not winning the Ashes will make a difference, time will tell, but you've still got to perform whether you are young or a veteran." With 671 runs from three Tests, Smith has carried the Australian batting on his shoulders with some support from Labuschagne, who has an average of 58.2 in the series. Langer called for patience with the young batters in the side. "He (Smith) has done a lot for Australian cricket for the last few years actually, and so has Dave Warner," Langer said. "But we've also got to remember, Travis Head is new to Test cricket, Marnus (Labuschagne) is new to Test cricket, Marcus Harris is new to Test cricket, Cameron Bancroft is new to Test cricket. "You can't just give them that experience, they've got to earn that and we're very thankful to have Steve batting. We're lucky to have him but Test cricket takes time. We've got to respect that, it takes a lot of time." While his batsmen have been misfiring, Langer has no such problems with his fast bowling unit. Pat Cummins has played all four Tests and is the pick of the fast bowlers with 24 wickets while Josh Hazlewood has taken 18 from three. The touring side have James Pattinson and Peter Siddle with two Tests each under their belt in the series, and the uncapped Michael Neser is also an option. "We've James Pattinson literally jumping out of his skin to play the next Test," Langer said. "Peter Siddle, in those first two Tests, was probably the standout bowler, a great professional and a ripping person to have in the team. "It'll be fascinating to see how they (Cummins and Hazlewood) pull up ... whatever happens we're lucky to have a couple of other guys who are raring to go if we need them."

Australia coach Langer wants struggling batsmen to step up

Australia coach Justin Langer has cited the example of boxer Muhammad Ali and his stolen bike to inspire Australia for the ongoing Ashes.

He also said that the defeat against England in the third Test felt like that the Ashes was stolen from them, but he said that the team will not feel sorry for themselves and will come out with more fire on the field.

"Champions have all had times of adversity, whether it is in business, sport or life. The ones who come back from it. Think about Muhammad Ali getting his bike stolen. That was the fire he needed to become the greatest boxer of all time," cricket.com.au quoted Langer as saying.

"We felt a bit like we got the Ashes stolen the other day. Now we have got to work out what we are going to do, and use that as fire. We are not going to feel sorry for ourselves and let it slip," he added.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes had played one of the finest knocks in Test cricket as he had guided England to an improbable win against Australia in the third Test at Headingley.

The left-handed batsman played an unbeaten knock of 135 runs.

Chasing 359 for the win, England were left 286/9, still, 73 runs away from the target.

It was then Stokes decided to play in an aggressive manner and he took on the Aussie bowlers, smashing them all around the park.

He found support in the number eleven batsman Jack Leach and the duo stitched together an unbeaten partnership of 76 runs, in which Leach only contributed 1 run from 17 balls.

Australia had a chance of winning the match when England were nine wickets down with just two runs away from the target.

Stokes had played a reverse sweep off the bowling of spinner Nathan Lyon and the ball had gone to Pat Cummins.Non-striker Leach tried to take a run but Stokes sent the number eleven batsman back mid-pitch as Cummins threw the ball to Lyon at the bowler's end.

However, Lyon fumbled Cummins' throw to give Leach a reprieve."The great players and great teams - in business and life - they have their ups and downs, but they always fight back from it. You would not see one champion player, one champion team, one champion business that has not done that," Langer said.

Aussies named their 12-man squad for the fourth Ashes Test on Monday.

The squad is as follows: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matt Wade, Tim Paine (c, wk), Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Australia and England will lock horns in the fourth Test, beginning September 4.

Australia coach Justin Langer has cited the example of boxer Muhammad Ali and his stolen bike to inspire Australia for the ongoing Ashes. He also said that the defeat against England in the third Test felt like that the Ashes was stolen from them, but he said that the team will not feel sorry for themselves and will come out with more fire on the field.

Australia coach Justin Langer has cited the example of boxer Muhammad Ali and his stolen bike to inspire Australia for the ongoing Ashes. He also said that the defeat against England in the third Test felt like that the Ashes was stolen from them, but he said that the team will not feel sorry for themselves and will come out with more fire on the field. "Champions have all had times of adversity, whether it is in business, sport or life. The ones who come back from it. Think about Muhammad Ali getting his bike stolen. That was the fire he needed to become the greatest boxer of all time," cricket.com.au quoted Langer as saying. "We felt a bit like we got the Ashes stolen the other day. Now we have got to work out what we are going to do, and use that as fire. We are not going to feel sorry for ourselves and let it slip," he added. England all-rounder Ben Stokes had played one of the finest knocks in Test cricket as he had guided England to an improbable win against Australia in the third Test at Headingley. The left-handed batsman played an unbeaten knock of 135 runs. Chasing 359 for the win, England were left 286/9, still, 73 runs away from the target. It was then Stokes decided to play in an aggressive manner and he took on the Aussie bowlers, smashing them all around the park. He found support in the number eleven batsman Jack Leach and the duo stitched together an unbeaten partnership of 76 runs, in which Leach only contributed 1 run from 17 balls. Australia had a chance of winning the match when England were nine wickets down with just two runs away from the target. Stokes had played a reverse sweep off the bowling of spinner Nathan Lyon and the ball had gone to Pat Cummins.Non-striker Leach tried to take a run but Stokes sent the number eleven batsman back mid-pitch as Cummins threw the ball to Lyon at the bowler's end. However, Lyon fumbled Cummins' throw to give Leach a reprieve."The great players and great teams - in business and life - they have their ups and downs, but they always fight back from it. You would not see one champion player, one champion team, one champion business that has not done that," Langer said. Aussies named their 12-man squad for the fourth Ashes Test on Monday. The squad is as follows: David Warner, Marcus Harris, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Matt Wade, Tim Paine (c, wk), Pat Cummins, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood. Australia and England will lock horns in the fourth Test, beginning September 4.

Justin Langer cites Muhammad Ali's example to inspire Australia

Despite admitting to have Australia pacer Pat Cummins for all five Test matches, head coach Justin Langer has said that it won't be 'humanly possible'&nbsp;for the bowler to play all the matches.

Cummins displayed a brilliant performance in the first Ashes Test as he took seven wickets in two innings. Australia registered a massive 251-run victory against England in the first Ashes Test match.

"In theory, you would like him to play all five Tests. Those back-to-back Test matches depend a lot on how much he bowls. He bowled the most overs [among Australia`s fast bowlers] in the first Test, but depends on how the game goes and how many overs he bowls, on how much batting there is in between [bowling innings], whether we've bowled last or we`ve bowled in the third innings of the game," ICC quoted Langer as saying.

"All those things will come into it. You'd like him to play all five, but I am not sure it's humanly possible," he added.

Australia have many pace options in the squad as they got Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Both missed the first Ashes Test as the team went with Cummins, Peter Siddle, and James Pattinson for the match.

"You also have Josh Hazlewood, who has played 40-odd Tests and is a gun, and Mitch Starc, who took 10 wickets in his last Test match. They're all there and we`ve talked about having the squad of fast bowlers," Langer said.

"I think everyone would like to play all five. I think it`s one of those things, where it`s just great that we've got that flexibility, so I think every game you`re going to pick your best three bowlers you think are going to win that match," he added.

The second Ashes Test between Australia and England will start from August 14.

Despite admitting to have Australia pacer Pat Cummins for all five Test matches, head coach Justin Langer has said that it won't be 'humanly possible' for the bowler to play all the matches.

Despite admitting to have Australia pacer Pat Cummins for all five Test matches, head coach Justin Langer has said that it won't be 'humanly possible' for the bowler to play all the matches. Cummins displayed a brilliant performance in the first Ashes Test as he took seven wickets in two innings. Australia registered a massive 251-run victory against England in the first Ashes Test match. "In theory, you would like him to play all five Tests. Those back-to-back Test matches depend a lot on how much he bowls. He bowled the most overs [among Australia`s fast bowlers] in the first Test, but depends on how the game goes and how many overs he bowls, on how much batting there is in between [bowling innings], whether we've bowled last or we`ve bowled in the third innings of the game," ICC quoted Langer as saying. "All those things will come into it. You'd like him to play all five, but I am not sure it's humanly possible," he added. Australia have many pace options in the squad as they got Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Both missed the first Ashes Test as the team went with Cummins, Peter Siddle, and James Pattinson for the match. "You also have Josh Hazlewood, who has played 40-odd Tests and is a gun, and Mitch Starc, who took 10 wickets in his last Test match. They're all there and we`ve talked about having the squad of fast bowlers," Langer said. "I think everyone would like to play all five. I think it`s one of those things, where it`s just great that we've got that flexibility, so I think every game you`re going to pick your best three bowlers you think are going to win that match," he added. The second Ashes Test between Australia and England will start from August 14.

Justin Langer says not 'humanly possible' for Cummins to play all five Test matches

Australia coach Justin Langer says an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anderson-could-hold-key-to-ashes-says-mcgrath-239251">Ashes</a> return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-joins-steve-smith-and-david-warner-in-australias-ashes-squad-238644&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjlgs2W3tzjAhWL7nMBHW9qDEUQFjACegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EAcaSZ4lNdf3iTyI_At_Y">David Warner and Steve Smith.</a>

If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI.

Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup.

Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook.

"It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday.

"His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary."

Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out.

"He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal."

Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series.

"He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said.

Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack.&nbsp;

"There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer.

Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban.

Australia coach Justin Langer says an Ashes return for Cameron Bancroft would be "a great story" but knows he will face a hostile reception from England fans after his ball-tampering ban. Bancroft, 26, is set to open the batting in Thursday's first Test at Edgbaston, with Australia's top order also likely to feature David Warner and Steve Smith. If that is the case, it would mean all three players who were banned for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year would be in Australia's XI. Smith and Warner have already experienced plenty of boos from English crowds during the recent World Cup. Bancroft, not selected for the one-day tournament, will almost certainly experience more of the same given he was the one who applied sandpaper to the ball during a Test away to South Africa in a blatant flouting of cricket's rulebook. "It would be a great story if he comes back into the team," Langer said at Edgbaston on Tuesday. "His development after what happened in Cape Town has been extraordinary." Langer, a former Australia opener, said: "We know what the reception is going to be. There's nothing we can do about it. We don't know (how he will cope) actually, but we'll find out. "He's a good kid and as tough as anyone you could meet. To endure the scrutiny of the past 14 months, especially the first part of it, I think he's had a pretty good dress rehearsal." Langer confirmed batsman Usman Khawaja, who missed Australia's World Cup semi-final defeat by England at Edgbaston with a hamstring injury, had been passed fit and would play in the opening match of the five-Test series. "He's a seasoned pro for us, he averages 40-odd in Test cricket, his hammy is good, he's running well, he's passed all the fitness tests, so he's ready to go," Langer said. Fast bowler James Pattinson is also set to feature in what would be his first Test since February 2016, lining up alongside Pat Cummins and one of Mitchell Starc, Peter Siddle or Josh Hazlewood in Australia's pace attack. "There's probably three to be fair - Starcy, Peter Siddle and Josh Hazlewood - for one spot," added Langer. Australia holds the Ashes but has not won a Test series away to England since 2001.

Langer predicts hostile Ashes reception for Bancroft from England fans

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals.

Langer's side secured their spot in the last four with a 64-run win over hosts England at Lord's on Tuesday and return to the famous north London ground on Saturday to face neighbours New Zealand in their penultimate round-robin tie.

With the Ashes test series in England to come after the World Cup, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-i-thrive-on-crowd-booing-i-love-it-says-australias-david-warner-230818&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN-6XY5YvjAhVEc3AKHTaUA2w4ChAWMAF6BAgPEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UoBSHL1BdMQ1TwX3542EY">Australia </a>might be forgiven for giving the pace duo a rest but Langer said the players would probably not want to put their feet up at any stage of the tournament.

"I would be surprised if either of those guys rest up," Langer told a news conference.

"The challenge is going to be that we have long layoffs now, a bit of a layoff here, then five or six days in Manchester, we have to manage that really well. So I don’t think they will want to rest," Langer said.

Left-armer Starc is the top wicket-taker at the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-cup-semi-final-scenario-pakistan-stay-alive-england-vs-australia-at-lords-key-to-shaping-top-four-230038&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiN-6XY5YvjAhVEc3AKHTaUA2w4ChAWMAN6BAgQEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw0CkvlpSb3Qm_zBJJtGp8ta">World Cup</a> so far with 19 from seven matches and while Cummins started well with 11 from his first five matches, he drew blanks against Bangladesh and England.

Langer said he was not concerned at all with the 26-year-old's form.

"He hasn't got the wickets in the last two games, but he's still been a huge part of our side," Langer added.

"He's someone who's so reliable that you go to when you either need a wicket or you need some control in a game. He provides so much for the side," he said.

Both pacemen were put into the shade a little on Tuesday, however, when Jason Behrendorff took five for 44 after bowling James Vince through the gate for a duck with the second ball of the England innings.

"To come to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-people-are-waiting-for-us-to-fail-says-englands-jonny-bairstow-231113">England </a>and bowl on the big stage as well as he did, it will be a great confidence boost for him," said Langer, who coached the left-arm seamer at Western Australia.

"I've seen it for a long time ... he is a very good athlete and he's an incredible professional so he will do everything possible to play. And he's a really nice person. To see those sort of people get a reward is really pleasing,"&nbsp;Langer said.

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals.

Australia coach Justin Langer thinks it unlikely that frontline quicks Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins will be rested at the World Cup even if the defending champions have already qualified for the semi-finals. Langer's side secured their spot in the last four with a 64-run win over hosts England at Lord's on Tuesday and return to the famous north London ground on Saturday to face neighbours New Zealand in their penultimate round-robin tie. With the Ashes test series in England to come after the World Cup, Australia might be forgiven for giving the pace duo a rest but Langer said the players would probably not want to put their feet up at any stage of the tournament. "I would be surprised if either of those guys rest up," Langer told a news conference. "The challenge is going to be that we have long layoffs now, a bit of a layoff here, then five or six days in Manchester, we have to manage that really well. So I don’t think they will want to rest," Langer said. Left-armer Starc is the top wicket-taker at the World Cup so far with 19 from seven matches and while Cummins started well with 11 from his first five matches, he drew blanks against Bangladesh and England. Langer said he was not concerned at all with the 26-year-old's form. "He hasn't got the wickets in the last two games, but he's still been a huge part of our side," Langer added. "He's someone who's so reliable that you go to when you either need a wicket or you need some control in a game. He provides so much for the side," he said. Both pacemen were put into the shade a little on Tuesday, however, when Jason Behrendorff took five for 44 after bowling James Vince through the gate for a duck with the second ball of the England innings. "To come to England and bowl on the big stage as well as he did, it will be a great confidence boost for him," said Langer, who coached the left-arm seamer at Western Australia. "I've seen it for a long time ... he is a very good athlete and he's an incredible professional so he will do everything possible to play. And he's a really nice person. To see those sort of people get a reward is really pleasing," Langer said.

No rest for the pacers even though Australia have qualified, says coach Justin Langer

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is not guaranteed to play against Bangladesh on Thursday but is being retained in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australia-finding-it-hard-to-find-their-best-xi-after-marcus-stoinis-injury-228328">Australia's Cricket World Cup squad</a> after fighting his way back to fitness, coach Justin Langer has confirmed.

Stoinis missed last week's victories over Pakistan and Sri Lanka due to a side strain suffered in their loss to India, prompting Mitchell Marsh to be flown in as cover.

Marsh headed off to join the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-australias-final-call-on-injured-marcus-stoinis-next-week-says-aaron-finch-227292&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjbp6fL7PTiAhVKRo8KHd_YAAEQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw12JHMyK4Sx_2_oEZDOKhcy">Australia </a>A team in Northampton on Tuesday while Stoinis was back in the nets bowling as he presses for selection against Bangladesh at Trent Bridge.

Langer said he was "a chance" to play against Bangladesh but stopped short of confirming he would take part.

"He's done everything possible to get himself fit," Langer said.

"He wouldn't give up the opportunity for anything, would he? He's determined, so it doesn't surprise me with where he's at now. It's a credit to him, it's a credit to the medical staff that are getting him up. So hopefully he can have a real impact on the tournament," Langer said.

Langer confirmed that seamer Nathan Coulter-Nile was also ready for a recall after being rested with back soreness for the match against Sri Lanka.

"He played three games (in seven days) and I don't think he has done that for a long time," said Langer.

"He's fit and he's certainly fit to play the next game," added Langer.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-marcus-stoinis-ruled-out-of-australias-clash-against-sri-lanka-226259&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjbp6fL7PTiAhVKRo8KHd_YAAEQFjAHegQIBhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw127OHHJy2gwfUrKWMtUypT">Australia </a>are second in the World Cup standings, level on points with leaders England.

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is not guaranteed to play against Bangladesh on Thursday but is being retained in Australia's Cricket World Cup squad after fighting his way back to fitness, coach Justin Langer has confirmed.

All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is not guaranteed to play against Bangladesh on Thursday but is being retained in Australia's Cricket World Cup squad after fighting his way back to fitness, coach Justin Langer has confirmed. Stoinis missed last week's victories over Pakistan and Sri Lanka due to a side strain suffered in their loss to India, prompting Mitchell Marsh to be flown in as cover. Marsh headed off to join the Australia A team in Northampton on Tuesday while Stoinis was back in the nets bowling as he presses for selection against Bangladesh at Trent Bridge. Langer said he was "a chance" to play against Bangladesh but stopped short of confirming he would take part. "He's done everything possible to get himself fit," Langer said. "He wouldn't give up the opportunity for anything, would he? He's determined, so it doesn't surprise me with where he's at now. It's a credit to him, it's a credit to the medical staff that are getting him up. So hopefully he can have a real impact on the tournament," Langer said. Langer confirmed that seamer Nathan Coulter-Nile was also ready for a recall after being rested with back soreness for the match against Sri Lanka. "He played three games (in seven days) and I don't think he has done that for a long time," said Langer. "He's fit and he's certainly fit to play the next game," added Langer. Australia are second in the World Cup standings, level on points with leaders England.

World Cup: Australia's injured Marcus Stoinis has 'a chance' to play against Bangladesh

Justin Langer has hailed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-waugh-ranks-dangerous-windies-as-world-cups-most-watchable-side-224066">West Indies'</a> "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers.

The two teams, who have won seven out of the 11 World Cups so far between them, meet at Trent Bridge on Thursday after both cruised to comfortable opening victories.&nbsp;

Head coach Langer said defending champions Australia would need to adjust their mindset to take on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-am-a-fast-bowler-thunders-andre-russell-after-startling-pakistan-in-their-world-cup-opener-223332">West Indies quicks and other fast bowlers</a> at the tournament in England and Wales.

"We've probably spent four months thinking and playing against spin bowling," he said on Tuesday.

"We have to adapt to the West Indies no doubt, who have got a number of good, fast bowlers. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-south-african-pacer-dale-steyn-ruled-out-of-tournament-due-to-shoulder-injury-224247">South Africa</a> will be the same. England will be the same. Have to adapt our game plan and adapt pretty quickly.&nbsp;Obviously a very dangerous team the way they bat and aggressive bowling, but they've got weaknesses as well and we're playing pretty good cricket," said Langer.

West Indies, who won the first two World Cups, in 1975 and 1979, were the dominant force in the world game for two decades and boasted a succession of world-class fast bowlers and thrilling batsmen.

"When I was a kid it was Calypso cricket, and I think we're seeing plenty of signs of Calypso cricket," Langer said.&nbsp;

"Running and bowling fast. They're not necessarily going to be bowling the same spot every ball, but going to be exciting to watch. They all try to hit sixes most balls so Darren Bravo's probably a little bit more unorthodox.&nbsp;Always exciting playing the West Indies. When I was growing up they were my heroes," added Langer.

Langer described veteran opener Chris Gayle, who scored 50 in the West Indies' seven-wicket victory against Pakistan, as a "brilliant player".

"They got a number of dangerous players. With him&nbsp;on the team&nbsp;they seemed to grow a leg. They take confidence from him. Again, hopefully, don't take too much confidence on Thursday," he said.

Australia were on the end of a thumping last year when England posted a world record one-day international score of 481 for six at Trent Bridge and Langer described the experience as "brutal".

"Had some really good times here at Trent Bridge and last year was a down," he said.

Langer welcomed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-2019-english-crowds-stupid-to-boo-david-warner-says-manager-224097">David Warner's</a> innings of 89 not out in Australia's win against Afghanistan, his first official international match since completing a one-year ban for ball tampering.

"You can see the look in his eyes. A lot of people are talking. Looks determined. For him to battle through 90 or 80, whatever it was, and to still be there at the end and get the job done for the team, that's a great sign for us," Langer said.

Justin Langer has hailed the West Indies' "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers.

Justin Langer has hailed the West Indies' "Calypso cricket", admitting they were his heroes when he was growing up as he prepares Australia to face their current battery of fast bowlers. The two teams, who have won seven out of the 11 World Cups so far between them, meet at Trent Bridge on Thursday after both cruised to comfortable opening victories. Head coach Langer said defending champions Australia would need to adjust their mindset to take on the West Indies quicks and other fast bowlers at the tournament in England and Wales. "We've probably spent four months thinking and playing against spin bowling," he said on Tuesday. "We have to adapt to the West Indies no doubt, who have got a number of good, fast bowlers. South Africa will be the same. England will be the same. Have to adapt our game plan and adapt pretty quickly. Obviously a very dangerous team the way they bat and aggressive bowling, but they've got weaknesses as well and we're playing pretty good cricket," said Langer. West Indies, who won the first two World Cups, in 1975 and 1979, were the dominant force in the world game for two decades and boasted a succession of world-class fast bowlers and thrilling batsmen. "When I was a kid it was Calypso cricket, and I think we're seeing plenty of signs of Calypso cricket," Langer said. "Running and bowling fast. They're not necessarily going to be bowling the same spot every ball, but going to be exciting to watch. They all try to hit sixes most balls so Darren Bravo's probably a little bit more unorthodox. Always exciting playing the West Indies. When I was growing up they were my heroes," added Langer. Langer described veteran opener Chris Gayle, who scored 50 in the West Indies' seven-wicket victory against Pakistan, as a "brilliant player". "They got a number of dangerous players. With him on the team they seemed to grow a leg. They take confidence from him. Again, hopefully, don't take too much confidence on Thursday," he said. Australia were on the end of a thumping last year when England posted a world record one-day international score of 481 for six at Trent Bridge and Langer described the experience as "brutal". "Had some really good times here at Trent Bridge and last year was a down," he said. Langer welcomed David Warner's innings of 89 not out in Australia's win against Afghanistan, his first official international match since completing a one-year ban for ball tampering. "You can see the look in his eyes. A lot of people are talking. Looks determined. For him to battle through 90 or 80, whatever it was, and to still be there at the end and get the job done for the team, that's a great sign for us," Langer said.

Coach Justin Langer prepares Australia for West Indies World Cup pace test

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