chief selector George Bailey responded to former pacer Mitchell Johnson’s criticism of David Warner by playing his farewell Test match against Pakistan. George Bailey highlighted that Mitchell Johnson appears distant and is unaware of the players’ situations and the team’s plans.
Mitchell Johnson questioned the decision to grant David Warner a farewell test, citing his involvement in the Sandpaper Gate scandal in 2018. The former fast bowler mentioned that the veteran opener is getting a hero’s farewell despite the controversies surrounding him.
I hope you are well – Mitchell Johnson
When asked about Mitchell Johnson’s comments on David WarnerThe head of selection highlighted the importance of understanding the perspective of the players and the dynamics of the team.
“They have sent me small fragments. I hope you are good. I have no idea [if he is]. My only observation would be if someone could show me how to be distant and unaware of what the players are going through and what the plans are with the team and with the coaching staff, how that is more beneficial, I would be all ears.” Bailey said.
Australia will take on Pakistan in the three-match Test series, with the first match starting on December 14 in Perth. Warner expressed his desire to retire from red-ball cricket after the New Year’s Test at his home in Sydney.
George Bailey said he didn’t want to be part of – Mitchell Johnson
Mitchell Johnson also criticized George Bailey, pointing to his earlier decision to distance himself from determining Tim Paine’s fate during the sexting controversy.
“When then-captain Tim Paine’s career was ending over the sexting controversy, chairman of selectors George Bailey said he did not want to be part of deciding Paine’s fate because the two were close friends.” Johnson said.
“The management of Warner in recent years, who played with Bailey in all three ways, raises the question of whether Bailey simply stopped playing and got into the job too quickly and too close to some of the players.” he added.
Australia team for the first test against Pakistan: Pat Cummins (c), David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Cameron Green, Lance Morris.
Also read: ‘I asked George Bailey why…’: Ravichandran Ashwin praises Australia’s tactical brilliance