Who replaces Justin Langer if he gets Rissoled?
by Intern Brayden
As Summer approaches, it’s safe to say that the Australian Cricket Team is in a concerning form slump. In all formats of the game our national side has struggled, beginning in January with a Test Series loss to a Kohli-less India, to most recently dishing up our worst ever T20 performance falling to Bangladesh. All Australian’s are proud of our men in Merino wool, which is why something must change. In a result driven business, fingers start to get pointed, and unfortunately in most cases they point to the Coach.
Taking over at arguably the most difficult period in Australia’s cricketing history, losing star players, Langer was dealt a cruel hand and the pressure was on from the get-go. From the outside looking in, it seems this pressure is finally starting to creep up on JL and with an extremely important few months ahead that includes a World Cup and Ashes Series, we can’t afford to be off our game. We wish the best for Justin this Summer but if changes are needed, I have compiled a shortlist of candidates for the top job to help out our national selectors.
Ricky Ponting – Aged 46, 168 Tests, 13,378 runs @ 51.85
Australia’s all-time leading runs scorer and a childhood hero to most of the squad, Ricky commands respect. It’s certainly not our pacemen letting us down and being a batsman himself, I believe Ricky will bring invaluable experience and knowledge to the team. One reason he was overlooked for Langer is his hesitation in spending time away from his young family, however his priorities may have shifted in these 3 years, so is now the right time for Ricky to go the big lift?
Shane Warne – Aged 51, 145 Tests, 708 wickets @ 25.4
There are two different types of coaches – tacticians, and man managers. Whilst there is no doubting Warnie’s ability to spin a Kookaburra into next week, he is known just as well for his performances off the pitch as on it. Anyone who has watched ‘The Test’ would have seen first-hand the volatile nature of Langer’s coaching style. Likely more relaxed than Justin, Shane could provide the team with more of a tranquil environment which may be just what his players need. Currently coaching the London Spirit in England’s ‘The Hundred’ competition, could the leap to head honcho of the Australian side be the natural progression for Warnie?
Steve Smith – Aged 32, 77 Tests, 7,540 runs @ 61.8
We’ve all forgiven Steve, haven’t we? He has well and truly bounced back from Cape Town 2018 to continue to rip and tear for his nation. I’m far from suggesting Smudge hangs up the gloves, I’m simply putting forth the idea of a captain-coach role. Smudge isn’t getting any younger and although he’s showing little sign of slowing down, his time in the international game is limited. Finding himself a coaching role, surrounded by assistants to get through the grunt work would make for a seamless transition post-retirement, and I don’t think we can rule that option out.
Wayne Bennett – Aged 71, 877 Games Coached @ 62%
It’s tough to stomach the thought of the great Wayne Bennett taking a year off coaching. If anyone knows how to pick a side out of the mud and turn them around, nobody is more proven than Wayne. Having already coached the national side in Rugby League, Wayne is familiar with the responsibility that comes with the top job. The best in the business at dealing with pressure, managing selection decisions, and dealing with difficult personalities are all transferrable skills that would see Wayne excel in this position.
Matthew Hayden – Age 69, 103 Tests, 8,625 runs @ 50.7
If there’s anyone who knows how to swing a willow, it’s the man with the broadest shoulders in the known universe. Occupying the opening batsmen spot in one of the most dominant sporting teams in history for over a decade, and holding the record for the highest total by an Australian, it’s fair to say Hayden oozes success. Off the field, he’s a man in touch with nature, and his country lifestyle and homely presence could bring a calming aura to the team in times of pressure. As long as the players don’t mind swapping their yoga sessions for prayer sermons, Haydos could fit in well.
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