Langer Condemns England's 'Lack of Respect' After Perth Collapse
Australian cricket legend Justin Langer has launched a scathing attack on the England team, accusing them of showing a "lack of respect" for Test cricket following their humiliating two-day defeat in the first Ashes Test in Perth. The former Australia batter and coach expressed his dismay at the premature conclusion of the match on Day Two, highlighting the profound disappointment for fans, especially children, who were denied a full day of play.
The Cost of a Two-Day Test: Broken Dreams and Financial Loss
Langer did not hold back in his column for the West Australian, pointing to the wider consequences of such a swift match finish. He revealed hearing stories of "heartbroken kids" who missed the chance to see their heroes live, emphasising that the health of cricket depends on inspiring the next generation. Beyond the emotional toll, Langer detailed the significant financial impact, noting that Cricket Australia and the Optus Stadium would lose an estimated £5 million from lost ticket and food sales on the cancelled third day, money that is crucial for funding grassroots cricket.
He also highlighted the plight of the 2,000 casual staff who lost a day's wages and the vast quantity of prepared food that went to waste. While acknowledging the thrilling spectacle of Travis Head's blistering 123 runs from 83 balls, which guided Australia to victory, Langer questioned whether the entertainment value outweighed the damage done to the sport's stakeholders.
On-Air Apology Reignites Ashes Tensions
The fallout from the match also spilled over into the commentary box, where Langer reignited his long-standing Ashes feud. When former England captain Sir Alastair Cook asked for Langer's view on Ben Stokes, Langer immediately brought up the 2019 Leeds Test, which he described as the "worst day of my cricket career." He praised Stokes as a "freak" talent but the pointed reminder of that defeat forced Cook into a humorous, on-air apology for inadvertently raising a sore subject.
The comprehensive victory gives Australia a 1-0 lead in the series, with Langer suggesting the team is now favoured to retain the Ashes, a feat made more impressive by the absence of key bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood for the Perth opener.
