Shane Warne Blames 'Bits and Pieces' Players for Australia's Slump
Shane Warne has voiced his displeasure over Australia's poor performance in Tests in Asia, saying 'bits and pieces' players are hurting the team.
Highlights
-
Australia have lost nine consecutive Tests in Asia
-
Australia were whitewashed by Sri Lanka 3-0 for first time
-
Australia's loss to Sri Lanka led to them losing No.1 Test ranking
Legendary spinner Shane Warne has expressed his displeasure over the recent performances of Australia's Test and one-day teams, and questioned why `bits and pieces` players are being selected in the team.
Warne's comments came in the wake of his country's shocking 0-3 Test series defeat at the hands of Sri Lanka. ÂÂ
Although Australia staged a short-lived comeback by claiming a victory in the first ODI against Sri Lanka, they went on to suffer an 82-run defeat in the second match in Colombo on Wednesday.
While issuing a scathing attack over the Australian cricket team, Warne wrote on Twitter.
Not happy with Aust's test or one day team. Bits and pieces players who aren't good enough at either are not the answer - specialists are !
- Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) August 24, 2016
Echoing similar views, skipper Steve Smith also backed the concept of batsmen who are regarded as specialists against spin being considered for the Test series against India in February.
However, Smith, who has been rested for rest of the Sri Lanka tour, defended the efforts of Australia's selection panel.
The 27-year-old said that although Warne is entitled to give his opinions, he believes his side have got all the right players to get the job done, news.com.au reported.
While calling on his side to continue to work hard, Smith said Australia need to find way to have success in different conditions.
The five-match ODI series is now levelled at 1-1. Australia will play their second ODI against Angelo Mathews-led side at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in the Central Province on Sunday.