Mitchell Johnson, the former Australian bowler, didn’t hold back in his criticism of some of his old teammates and the usual bowling stars—Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon. His comments came right after Australia lost the World Test Championship final to South Africa. Writing for The West Australian, Johnson said that this bowling group shouldn’t be considered a guaranteed choice for the team anymore and called for the selectors to rethink things if necessary.
He especially took aim at Hazlewood for choosing to play in the IPL instead of getting ready for the WTC final, pointing out that Hazlewood had already been dealing with fitness issues. Johnson said, We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritize the IPL over his national team preparations raised eyebrows.
He also questioned if the senior players are just hanging around for the Ashes as a farewell. Johnson stressed the need to give chances to some of the hungrier players who really want to show what they can do. If veteran players are only around for the Ashes send-off, it raises questions about their mindset. It’s important to look ahead and build confidence for the next Test players. Guys like Sam Konstas, Josh Inglis, and even Scott Boland, despite being 36, have a different drive. They’re keen to prove themselves whenever they get a shot, he mentioned.
Johnson didn’t agree with the decision to open with Marnus Labuschagne so Cameron Green could bat at number three. He defended Green after his disappointing performance, suggesting the selectors should face some questions instead of the players. With the Ashes coming soon, he urged the selectors to focus on settling two openers and finding a solid number three.
Yes, Green didn’t do well—out for 4 and 0 in just five balls. And the way he got out to Kagiso Rabada showed he might not fit that role. But the bigger problem is Marnus Labuschagne’s poor form, similar to when Steve Smith moved up to open while struggling. I’m not a fan of these batting changes just to cover for lack of form. With the West Indies tour and the Ashes coming up, Australia needs to find their two openers and a reliable number three, Johnson added.