Cummins Stands by Chief Selector Bailey Amidst Lehmann's Criticism
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New Delhi, Dec 19 (NationPress) Australian Test captain Pat Cummins has publicly supported chief selector George Bailey following strong criticism from former Australian coach Darren Lehmann, who claimed Bailey is too familiar with the Test team to make the necessary tough decisions.
The disappointing performances of Australia’s top order have attracted significant backlash, with Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, and Marnus Labuschagne combining for an average of just 14.40, marking the lowest average for Australia’s top three in a home Test summer since 1887/88. Nathan McSweeney is particularly under scrutiny.
Lehmann criticized Bailey on Tuesday as the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar series appeared to head for a rain-interrupted draw, questioning Bailey's close ties with the team. "In my opinion, he’s too close to the team. I would prefer him observing from a selectors’ box to make unbiased decisions," Lehmann stated on ABC Sport.
However, Cummins swiftly defended Bailey, dismissing any notion that this proximity affected Bailey's ability to make difficult decisions.
"I don’t see how that (criticism) can be accurate. There is much more involved in selecting a team than simply browsing the internet. The key is to maintain objectivity, and I believe the selection panel excels in that area," Cummins was quoted by 7News.
“They have made some truly courageous decisions over the past couple of years across all formats. Perhaps bolder than I have seen from selectors in previous years. They have never hesitated to make tough calls. What George brings to the position is remarkable, and I'm sure this sentiment is echoed not only by the players on the side but also by state players as well," he added.
Despite Cummins’ backing, Bailey is likely to face increasing pressure if notable changes are not implemented in the Australian squad ahead of the fourth Test in Melbourne.
