Aussie Legend Criticizes Steve Smith Captaincy Appointment for Sri Lanka Tests Amid Ball-Tampering Saga
Mitchell Johnson criticized Steve Smith's appointment as captain for the Australia-Sri Lanka Test series, calling it a backward step. Johnson argued that appointing the 35-year-old Smith, following his ball-tampering ban, missed an opportunity for long-term leadership. Smith, who captained Australia previously, is leading the series after Pat Cummins took paternity leave. The two-match series begins on January 29.
Ball-tampering scandal resurfaced as former Australia fast bowler Mitchell Johnson criticized Steve Smith’s appointment as captain for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka. Johnson, in his column for The Nightly, called Smith’s return to the leadership role a “backward step”, questioning the decision at 35, especially after Smith’s one-year ban and two-year leadership suspension due to the 2018 ball-tampering controversy. He said:
As for the decision to bring back Steve Smith as Test captain in Sri Lanka after his one-year suspension and two-year leadership ban over the ball-tampering saga, I can understand the skepticism. While many fans admire his leadership, I’m among those who have reservations about him being resurrected at 35. It feels like a backward step, and while my opinion does not change the outcome, it’s frustrating to see choices that don’t seem aligned with long-term team development.
Despite this, Smith, who has captained Australia in 38 Tests, insists he’s comfortable with his leadership style and not troubled by external opinions. Smith will lead Australia for the two-match Test series in Sri Lanka starting on January 29, part of the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle, in Pat Cummins’ absence due to paternity leave. On this, Smith said:
Any chance I get to take over when Patty’s [Cummins] not here is good fun. I try and still do things my way. It’s been cool to have a couple of opportunities here and there. I mean, everyone’s entitled to their opinion. They can say whatever they like. I’m pretty comfortable in my own skin.
Australia, having already secured a spot in the WTC final, aims for a series win. Smith’s last leadership experience in Sri Lanka ended in a 3-0 loss in 2016, and the upcoming tour will be critical for the team’s performance and long-term planning.
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