It prompted a strident defence of the former all-rounder, with sources pointing out the Victorian was the head coach in all but title last season when he plotted out the team’s successful T20 World Cup and Ashes campaigns.
This is consistent with senior paceman Josh Hazlewood’s candid comment 12 months ago that Langer had taken a “big back seat” in the United Arab Emirates.
Hayden’s critique has raised the question among players why their predecessors are taking pot shots instead of helping, though there is a reluctance among former stars to be involved with the set-up having seen how Langer was treated. Hayden, a team mentor for Pakistan, declined to comment when contacted by The Age.
Players have so far kept their counsel publicly, but frustration is building behind the scenes. One player made his indignation clear to another former great during the tournament disappointed that details of what he felt was a private conversation were divulged on the broadcast.
A source close to the dressing room told The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald of players taking screenshots of criticism and keeping them in the memory bank.
Despite the unceremonious nature of Langer’s departure, numerous sources have said players have no personal issue with him, they just did not want him to remain as coach.
The Australian Cricketers Association will canvass current players for their views but does not believe the issue warrants their intervention, feeling it may exacerbate the situation, though will reconsider should relations deteriorate further.
With the likes of Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting and Langer himself all holding prominent media positions, the saga is unlikely to go away through the season, particularly if Pat Cummins’ men underperform against the West Indies and South Africa.
Langer is the star recruit for Seven’s Test coverage, where he will provide expert analysis and take part in player interviews should they occur during his shift.
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