Former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson made a massive statement on Steve Smith’s appointment as captain for the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka. Mitchell Johnson described Steve Smith’s appointment as a “backward step,” adding Australia missed an opportunity to explore a long-term captain.
With Pat Cummins taking paternity leave, Cricket Australia appointed Smith as captain for the two-match Test series. Smith will lead Australia in the final leg of the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle. Australia has already secured a spot in the WTC final later this year but will be aiming for a series victory.
It Feels Like a Backward Step – Mitchell Johnson
In his column for The Nightly, Mitchell Johnson expressed his concerns about Steve Smith’s return as Test captain for the Sri Lanka tour. Johnson felt it did not align with the team’s long-term goals, and bringing him back at 35 years old seemed like a backward step.
“As for the decision to bring back Steve Smith as Test captain in Sri Lanka after his one-year suspension and two-year leadership ban over the ball-tampering saga, I can understand the scepticism,” Johnson wrote.
“While many fans admire his leadership, I’m among those who have reservations about him being resurrected at 35. It feels like a backward step, and while my opinion does not change the outcome, it’s frustrating to see choices that don’t seem aligned with long-term team development,” he added.
They Can Say Whatever They Like – Steve Smith
In a recent interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, Steve Smith stated that people are entitled to their opinions about his captaincy. Smith mentioned that he continues to lead in his own style and is comfortable with the team’s positive environment, adding that he’s not bothered by others’ opinions.
“Any chance I get to take over when Patty’s [Cummins] not here is good fun. I try and still do things my way. It’s been cool to have a couple of opportunities here and there. I mean, everyone’s entitled to their opinion. They can say whatever they like. I’m pretty comfortable in my own skin.”
Smith Handed One-Year Ban After Ball-Tampering Saga
The 35-year-old cricketer was handed a one-year ban from all cricket for his role in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal during the South Africa tour. However, he has captained Australia a few times since his leadership ban ended. He became eligible to lead Australia after he returned to international cricket.
Smith has led Australia in 38 Tests, with 21 wins and 10 losses. However, his leadership saw Australia suffer a 3-0 loss in Sri Lanka in 2016.
Australia’s two-match Test tour of Sri Lanka begins on January 29, with the first Test scheduled to be played in Galle and the second Test set for February 6. Both matches will be held at the Galle International Cricket Stadium. After the red ball series, the teams will compete in a two-match ODI series.
Also read: WPL 2025: Mumbai Indians unveil new jersey