Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has made a huge statement regarding the appointment of Steve Smith as captain for the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka. Mitchell Johnson described the appointment of Steve Smith as a “step backwards”, adding that Australia had wasted an opportunity to scout a long-term leader.
With Pat Cummins taking paternity leave, Cricket Australia appointed Smith as captain for the two-match Test series. Smith will lead Australia in the final stretch of the 2023-25 World Test Championship tournament. Australia have already secured a place in the World Trade Center finals later this year but are aiming for a series win.
It feels like a step backwards – Mitchell Johnson
In his column for The Nightly, Mitchell Johnson expressed his concerns about Steve Smith’s return as Test captain for the Sri Lanka tour. Johnson felt that was not in line with the team’s long-term goals, and bringing him back at 35 seemed like a step backwards.
“Regarding the decision to reinstate Steve Smith as Sri Lanka Test captain following his one-year ban and two-year captaincy ban for the ball-tampering saga, I can understand the skepticism,” Johnson wrote.
“While many fans admire his leadership, I am among those who have reservations about reviving him at 35 years old. It feels like a step backwards, and while my opinion doesn’t change the outcome, it’s frustrating to see options that don’t seem to be the case. He added: “It is in line with the team’s long-term development.”
They can say what they like – Steve Smith
In a recent interview with the Sydney Morning Herald, Steve Smith stated that people are entitled to their opinions about the captain. Smith stated that he continues to lead in his own style and feels comfortable with the positive environment of the team, adding that he is not bothered by the opinions of others.
“Any opportunity I get to take over when Patty (Cummins) isn’t here is good fun. I try and still do things my way. It’s been great to have a couple of opportunities here and there. I mean everyone has the right to their opinion. They can say what “They want to, and I’m very comfortable in my own skin.”
Smith was handed a one-year ban following the ball-tampering saga
The 35-year-old cricketer was banned from cricket for one year for his role in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal during the tour of South Africa. However, he has captained Australia several times since his driving ban ended. He became eligible to captain Australia after returning to international cricket.
Smith has captained Australia in 38 Tests, with 21 wins and 10 losses. However, his leadership saw Australia lose 3-0 in Sri Lanka in 2016.
Australia’s two-match Test tour of Sri Lanka begins on January 29, with the first Test scheduled for Galle and the second Test on February 6. Both matches will be played at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. After the red-ball series, the teams will compete in a two-match ODI series.
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