‘Mitchell Johnson is entitled to his opinion’ – Pat Cummins breaks silence on Justin Langer saga

Justin Langer’s exit as Australia’s head coach hasn’t gone down well with many members of the cricket fraternity. Many former Aussie cricketers have openly criticized Cricket Australia for their decision. Even Test skipper Pat Cummins has also come under the scanner. As the speedster didn’t publicly endorse Langer’s extension, many reckon he has a hand in the former cricketer’s exit.

Former Aussie speedster Mitchell Johnson is also of the same opinion. He launched a scathing attack at Cummins, calling him ‘gutless’ for not standing up for Langer. Reacting to the same, Cummins said his former teammate is entitled to his opinion and he’s not seeking to make peace with him. The top-ranked Test pacer released a statement in front of the media where he fired back at Langer’s former teammates.

Mitchell Johnson is standing up for his mate, I am sticking up for mine: Pat Cummins

“I absolutely disagree with what he (Mitchell Johnson) says. He hasn’t reached out and he’s entitled to his opinion. He’s standing up for his mate. I can hold my head high so I’m fine. To all past players, I want to say this — just as you have always stuck up for your mates, I’m sticking up for mine,” Cummins stated.

Lavishing praises on Langer, Cummins said he is indebted to the West Australian for playing a part in Australia’s maiden T20 World Cup win and the 2021-22 Ashes triumph. While the Test skipper called Langer “the perfect man for the times”, he reckons the team now needs a change.

“There are so many positives to what JL has brought to the table. He was the perfect man for the times and he did a fantastic job. I loved working with him and thought he was brilliant. Some of these skillsets are a little bit different to perhaps a traditional coaching style,” said Cummins.

“I think he tweaked his coaching style the last six months but we think now is time for a different direction. It’s a matter of opinion, but we think it’s the right one,” he added. Clearing the air, the 28-year-old further said he has been in touch with Langer after his resignation.

“We’ve had a few messages over the last few days and we’re all good. From my point of view, I have huge respect for the man and I love what he has done. I owe him a lot he’s been brilliant for this team but also me individually. He’s backed me in a lot and that’s probably what I passed on to him and hopefully we can catch up soon and talk about it,” asserted Cummins.