NEW DELHI: In a commendation of Australian skipper Pat Cummins' leadership, former cricketer Ian Chappell has labelled him the "most inspirational player" and extolled his cricketing acumen. Writing for ESPNCricinfo, Chappell emphasised Cummins' pivotal role in Australia's recent triumphs, including the ICC World Test Championship, Ashes retention, and the sixth ICC Cricket World Cup title.
"Cummins was always going to be a good captain. Overlooking for a moment the difficulties of being a fast-bowling skipper, he was easily the most inspirational player in the Australian team, and one blessed with cricketing common sense," expressed Chappell.
Chappell praised Cummins for his exceptional skills as a fast bowler, citing his ability to take crucial wickets and consistently trouble top-tier opposition batters. He urged fellow cricketers to draw inspiration from Cummins, asserting, "Any cricketer who is not inspired by Cummins is in the wrong game."
Reflecting on Cummins' captaincy journey, Chappell noted his success in various formats and conditions, drawing comparisons to other illustrious bowler-captains like Imran Khan, Richie Benaud, and Ray Illingworth. Cummins' feat of securing a World Cup trophy placed him in a rare category of fast-bowling captains.
With Justin Langer's departure as head coach, Chappell acknowledged Cummins' role in selecting Andrew McDonald as the coach, underscoring the captain's influential role in managing the cricket side. He appreciated the aggressive yet sportsmanlike nature of Cummins' team and likened Cummins to fierce competitors like Mark Waugh and Anil Kumble.
Chappell lauded Cummins for addressing off-field issues such as climate change and 'Black Lives Matter,' commending his courage in a challenging social media climate. He acknowledged the captain's sincere commitment to climate-related issues and highlighted the intensity of Cummins' battle with Ben Stokes in the Ashes as a learning experience.
Chappell declared Cummins as the ideal choice for the Australian captaincy, stating that he has earned the right to continue in the role for as long as he desires.
(With inputs from ANI)
