Pat Cummins' staggering response to question about Justin Langer

·Sports Editor

2 February 2022 at 9:48 pm·3-min read

Pat Cummins and Justin Langer, pictured here with the Australian Test side. — Pat Cummins has failed to fully endorse Justin Langer as coach. Image: Getty

Pat Cummins has dodged questions about Justin Langer's future and refused to throw his full support behind the embattled coach.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Cummins said it was 'fair' that Cricket Australia is evaluating Langer's position as coach.

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Langer's contract is one of several key issues to be discussed on Friday in what shapes to be one of the most pivotal Cricket Australia board meetings in recent memory.

The majority of the focus will be on Langer's position after six months of speculation around his job and a preference to have it sorted before the upcoming Pakistan tour.

Friday's board meeting will be the last one before Australia's Test side depart for the subcontinent, while Langer's contract expires in June.

Langer has pointed to Australia's on-field performances during his tenure as reasons why he should be retained, including the recent Ashes and T20 World Cup triumphs.

But it has become clear in recent months that there is more than just the on-field aspect at play, with reports that Langer has lost the dressing room.

His intense and direct nature has come under heavy scrutiny and was a key sticking point for players when the issue came to a head in August.

The coach has since made a point to relinquish some control at the request of management and it was noted by both himself and others during the T20 World Cup success.

Justin Langer and Pat Cummins, pictured here celebrating Australia's 4-0 triumph in the Ashes series. — Justin Langer and Pat Cummins celebrate Australia's 4-0 triumph in the Ashes series. (Photo by Mark Kolbe - CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images) (Mark Kolbe - CA via Getty Images)

Pat Cummins says Justin Langer evaluation 'fair'

Cummins and white-ball captain Aaron Finch have both spoken to CA hierarchy since the end of Australia's 4-0 Ashes series win, and the Test skipper said on Thursday that it was fair for CA to evaluate Langer.

"It lies in Cricket Australia's hands. JL has been doing a fantastic job. He has been there for four years," Cummins told reporters.

"His contract is obviously up soon. So they're just going through an evaluation process at the moment which I think is fair and the right thing to do.

"We all get evaluated all the time as cricketers, it's part of a high-performance environment."

Justin Langer, pictured here before the BBL final between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers. — Justin Langer looks on before the BBL final between the Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images) (Robert Cianflone via Getty Images)

Langer has the support of the Australian cricket community, with virtually all of his ex-teammates arguing in his favour.

But current players have been largely silent on the issue, continually insisting the decision is above their pay level.

"It's part of speculation which I don't think is healthy. I don't think it helps anyone," Cummins said.

"That is Cricket Australia's job, it's not my job. I have really liked my time working with JL.

"We have had an evaluation process, I have been part of that. A lot of other players and staff have been part of that.

"I've got huge respect for JL, I really like working with him."

with AAP

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