“No cowards in the Australian team”: Cummins breaks silence on Langer’s claim

Perth, Nov 29 : Breaking his silence on former coach Justin Langers claim that he was undermined by leaks, Australian Test captain Pat Cummins on Tuesday defended his side saying there are no cowards in the dressing room.

The first Test between Australia and West Indies starting on Wednesday has been overshadowed by Langers recent candid interview on the Back Chat podcast, where he attacked anonymous "cowards" who were not transparent about the feedback leading up to his messy exit earlier this year despite a successful Ashes campaign and the 2021 T20 World Cup victory.

Addressing the issue publicly for the first time, the Australian skipper strongly defended his dressing room and said it was disappointing to see that so much focus was given on off-field issues instead of the actual cricket."Theres no cowards in an Australian cricket team, not ever.Id probably never disclose private conversations.

I think its disappointing sometimes the focus gets drawn to off-field issues but it hasnt really affected our team," Cummins told reporters on the eve of the first Test.In perhaps a sign of detente, Langer attempted to clarify his comments later and said that the current players were like "younger brothers" to him."I think theres no ill will to what he was trying to do and he clarified afterwards," Cummins said at Optus Stadium with the Justin Langer Stand in the backdrop."I think he had a think about it and clarified it, so thank him for that.

But were really proud of the last 12 months, how weve fronted up, the way weve played, the way weve conducted ourselves.Players can certainly hold their heads high," he added.

Cummins said he was "looking forward" to seeing Langer, who will be part of host broadcaster Sevens commentary team this summer, and wasnt expecting a frosty reception from parochial locals.The 29-old pacer further mentioned that there was no bad blood between the two and said he was "looking forward" to seeing Langer, a local hero in Perth.

The former Australian cricketer will be part of host broadcaster Sevens commentary team this summer."Hell be in and around here commentating so itll be good.We love playing here at the stadium.

My idol mentor, DK Lillee as well, its his home state," Cummins said.Asked if the Australia team was out of favour in Western Australia, the skipper said," We havent felt that at all.I know theres been some conjecture but I think it camouflages over a lot of the good stuff thats been going on and the support weve been receiving." #cowards #Australian #Cummins #breaks #silence #Langers #Cricket #BCCI #ICC #IPL #Sports #Acer.