In the aftermath of Ben Stokes’ extraordinary performance at the historic Headingley Ashes Test in 2019, former Australia coach Justin Langer made a bold decision to cancel the players’ scheduled time off in an effort to rebuild confidence within the team. The third Test saw England chasing a target of 359 to win, and against all odds, an unlikely partnership between Stokes and No.11 Jack Leach led to a despairing defeat for the Australians. Langer, in a column for The Telegraph, has now shared that his choice to halt the players’ leave did not sit well with everyone.
Langer reflects on this period as the most rewarding coaching week of his career, despite its unpopularity. He acknowledges that leadership decisions are rarely praised. However, the insights gained from that week proved to be invaluable. The unpopularity arose because some players had planned to take a few days off to relieve the pressures of the game and spend time with their families. Nevertheless, a last-minute decision was made for the whole squad to travel together to prepare for the fourth Test. Although this decision was met with mixed feelings, clear communication and explanation of its importance strengthened the group’s bond, with everyone eventually coming on board.
Following the devastating loss, Langer experienced several sleepless nights. He then decided to sit the players down in a boardroom to watch the Stokes-Leach partnership once again. His goal was to confront the disappointment head-on, learn from the experience, let it go, and look towards the future. Langer emphasizes that other teams might have crumbled under such pressure, potentially resulting in losing the Ashes. However, the Australian squad had to confront their demons and overcome them. This process started in the boardroom and continued with the entire squad traveling together to Derbyshire for a practice game. Langer’s message was clear: they needed to strengthen their resolve through action rather than just talk. Winning the three-day contest was the objective, and the rewards would make the effort worthwhile.
Fast forward to 2023, when players have a nine-day break before the fourth Test at Old Trafford. Langer believes that several Australian players would benefit from playing a match during this break. He specifically mentions Todd Murphy, Cameron Green, and struggling stars David Warner and Scott Boland. According to Langer, they all need time in the middle to regain their rhythm. Reflecting on the current squad, Langer suggests that scheduling a match during the break would have been advantageous.
Langer rejects the modern philosophy of being at one’s best when fresh, especially for young players. He firmly believes that improvement comes from consistent action rather than doing less. Langer acknowledges that both teams will be contemplating how to best prepare for the final two Tests and emphasizes the importance of getting it right. The fourth Test is set to begin on July 19 at Old Trafford.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
