Cricket

Justin Langer backs Joe Burns to retain opening position

Australian head coach Justin Langer has put his weight behind opener Joe Burns for the upcoming series against India.

Langer has hinted that the team will back Burns as the first opener with David Warner as the right-hander has done well for the team in the past. Burns had scored a fine knock of 180 in the second Test match against Sri Lanka in 2019 at Manuka Oval, Canberra.

However, Burns’ current form isn’t the best as he has struggled to get going in the Sheffield Shield. On the other hand, 22-year old Will Pucovski has been putting pressure on Burns as he has amassed 495 runs in two matches at an outstanding average of 247.5.

Thus, it was anticipated that Pucovski will be favourite for the opening position with David Warner, come the first Test match against the Indians.

“Last time we played Test cricket, we loved the combination of Joe Burns and David Warner. They’ve got real synergy or chemistry. They work well together. So, at this point I’ll say that that’ll remain the same,” said Langer on Friday (November 13).

On the other hand, Langers also mentioned that things will be clear after the first warm-up match between Australia A and India. Both Burns and Pucovski will take part in the three-day warm-up game at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney from December 6-8. Consequently, the batsman who will show better form in that game, will be a favourite for the opening Test against the tourists.

“It’s always nice when going into a Test match to know as far out as possible for the players who will play. Things can change, but I would say you will have a better idea who will open in the first Test match after that first Australia A game”.

The opening partnership will be crucial for Australia and it would be interesting to note who will partner David Warner in the first Test match. The first Test will take place at Adelaide Oval from December 17 and it will be a Day-Night contest.

On the other hand, Justin Langer heaped praise on the Indian captain, Virat Kohli. Langer stated that Australia will need to play at the top of their game to beat a strong team like India, despite the fact that the visitors will be without Kohli in the last three Test matches.

About the Author


Written by DafaNews

DafaNews brings you the most highlighted news in the world of Sports. It serves you up-to-date matches, scores, live streams, fantasy games and quizzes. Our news covers India's prestigious leagues and events – Premier League, Pro Kabbadi League, Cricket World Cup and many more. Follow DafaNews on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,Telegram and Youtube for more updates.

Related Post
Share
Published by
DafaNews

Recent Posts

Aakash Chopra opens on Sanju Samson potentially moving to CSK if released by RR

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra believes Chennai Super Kings could be one of the… Read More

August 8, 2025

Irfan Pathan rates Karun Nair’s performance on England tour, says batter didn’t capitalise on his opportunities

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan gave a rating of four out of 10 to Karun… Read More

August 8, 2025

Robin Uthappa reflects on Kuldeep Yadav being left out of India’s playing 11 during ENG vs IND 2025 Tests

Former Indian batter Robin Uthappa backed the team management’s decision to not play Kuldeep Yadav… Read More

August 7, 2025

Prasidh Krishna’s childhood coach lauds pacer for fine show in ENG vs IND 2025 5th Test

India’s fast bowler Prasidh Krishna's childhood coach, P. Srinivasa Murthy, praised his ward for bowling… Read More

August 7, 2025

Sanjay Bangar hails Ravindra Jadeja’s performance in ENG vs IND 2025 series

Former Indian all-rounder Sanjay Bangar praised Ravindra Jadeja for his consistent performances in the Anderson-Tendulkar… Read More

August 6, 2025

Parthiv Patel lauds KL Rahul, says he performed consistently till the fifth Test against England

Former Indian wicket-keeper bat Parthiv Patel praised KL Rahul for performing consistently throughout the five-match… Read More

August 6, 2025