Justin Langer has been named as the new head coach of Australia. One of his key aims will be to win back the “support and respect” of the public following the ball-tampering scandal.
Langer replaces Darren Lehmann, who was one of the fall guys after Australia were caught using sandpaper to tamper with the ball during a Test match against South Africa in March. As a result of the scandal, Lehmann resigned from his post. Captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft all received lengthy bans.
Former Test opening batsman Langer is currently coach of Western Australia and Perth Scorchers. He will start his new role on 22 March after signing a four-year deal with Cricket Australia.
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The 47-year-old will oversee “the rebirth and rebranding of the national men’s outfit” across all formats, Cricket.com.au reports. He will also sit on the player review panel.
Langer described his new appointment as “humbling.” He thanked the Western Cricket Association and the Perth Scorchers for their support over the past six seasons, as well as his family.
He also expressed his enthusiam for the new role. “I am very excited about the scope I now have to coach the country that supported me so much in my cricketing career.
“There will be some significant challenges ahead for our group, but there is a wealth of talent in Australian cricket that I know will do us all proud.
“I’m thoroughly looking forward to working with all players, as we strive for a successful men’s team across all formats, with the support and respect of the Australian public.”
As a player Langer scored 7,696 runs in 105 Test matches for Australia at an average of 45.27 and including 23 centuries.
Twitter reactions to Langer’s appointment:
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