The ball-tampering saga is mentioned as the Aussie legend trashes Steve Smith’s appointment as captain for the SL Tests

Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has made a big statement on the appointment of Steve Smith as captain for the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka. Mitchell Johnson described the appointment of Steve Smith as “a step backwards”, adding that Australia had missed an opportunity to explore the long-serving captain.

With Pat Cummins taking paternity leave, Cricket Australia named 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 have already secured a place in the WTC finals later this year, but will aim to win the series.

Feels like a step back – 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 didn’t align with the team’s long-term goals, and bringing him back at age 35 felt like a step backwards.

“Regarding the decision to reinstate Steve Smith as Test captain in Sri Lanka after his one-year suspension and two-year ban from leadership 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 resurrecting him at age 35. It feels like a step backwards, and while my opinion doesn’t change the outcome, it’s frustrating to see choices that don’t seem consistent with the long-term development of the team,” he added.

They can say whatever they want – Steve Smith

In a recent interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, Steve Smith stated that people are entitled to their opinion about his duties as captain. Smith mentioned that he continues to lead in his style and that he is comfortable with the positive environment in the team, adding that he is not bothered by other people’s opinions.

“Any chance I get to take over when Patty’s [Cummins] no it’s good fun here. I try and still do things my way. It was great to have a few opportunities here and there. I mean, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. They can say whatever they want. I’m quite comfortable in my own skin.”

Smith received a one-year ban following the ball-tampering saga

The 35-year-old cricketer received a one-year ban from cricket for his role in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal during the South African tour. However, he has captained Australia several times since his coaching ban expired. He became eligible to lead Australia after returning to international cricket.

Smith led Australia in 38 Tests, winning 21 and losing 10. However, his leadership saw Australia lose 3-0 in Sri Lanka in 2016.

Australia’s two-match Test tour of Sri Lanka begins on January 29, with the first Test to be played in Galle and the second Test on 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.

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