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Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has shared his perspective on ex-fast bowler Mitchell Johnson’s recent column, acknowledging some valid points while expressing disagreement with the critique directed at chief selector George Bailey. Johnson’s column in The West Australian criticized David Warner’s retirement plans and brought up the sandpaper scandal, targeting Bailey for not being stern enough with Warner in his role.
In an interview on SEN Radio, Paine stated, “I think a lot of his (Johnson’s) article, he raised some pretty valid points. The George stuff I didn’t love, I thought that was a bit unnecessary, but was George too quickly from a player to a selector? It’s a valid question.”
Paine defended Bailey’s professionalism, integrity, and the success of the team under his guidance. While acknowledging the swift transition from player to selector, Paine emphasized that Bailey’s competence and the team’s achievements speak for themselves.
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Reflecting on Johnson’s criticism of Bailey’s handling of Paine’s retirement, Paine explained, “Not only are we close friends, he knows my family, he knows everything in my life… there were a lot of other sensible people sitting around the table from Cricket Australia who were having discussions.”
On David Warner’s recent form and selection, Paine acknowledged Johnson’s points but defended Warner’s position due to his status as one of the all-time greats. Paine expressed his disagreement with certain aspects of Johnson’s column, particularly its nature and the reintroduction of the sandpaper controversy.
“I think the points around the stats and his position in the team and him getting a bit of extra time were probably ruined a bit by the personal nature of it and bringing sandpaper back into it,” Paine commented.
-IANS
