WA Cricket Chief Slams CA’s Handling of Langer’s Exit, Hopes for Improved Fan Reception in Perth Test

Justin Langer left Cricket Australia (CA) in February 2022 but his departure continues to cast a long shadow, with WA cricket chief Christina Matthews blaming its handling for a poor reception the Test team received in Perth last summer.

Last summer’s Test against the West Indies at Perth’s Optus Stadium saw an underwhelming crowd, an almost 80% drop from regular crowd. It was partly attributed to the fallout of controversial departure of Justin Langer.

With hopes higher this year due to Australia’s Ashes and World Cup success, and a stronger opponent in Pakistan, Matthews expressed her awareness of the reasons behind the low attendance.

”We knew that part of the issue was getting people to see that Justin’s over it and loves the Australian team, and wants them to do well and wants them to be in Western Australia,” she told The Sydney Morning Herald.

Matthews criticized CA’s handling of the situation, stating that it “dragged out” and Langer “wasn’t treated with the respect he deserves.”

She emphasized that while she agreed with Langer not being retained as coach, the process lacked respect and transparency.

“Instead of just pulling off the Band-Aid and making a decision, it was dragged out and I think people here felt he wasn’t treated with the respect he deserves. I don’t have any problem with the fact they didn’t want him to coach, but I did have a problem with the way they managed it, and I think that didn’t sit well with the people of WA,” Matthews said.

Australian star Travis Head echoed Matthews’ concerns, acknowledging the poor reception players received in Perth last summer.

“There’s no doubt when it comes on the calendar we hope for a slightly better reception than some of the players got last time,” Head said.

He expressed his hope for a more positive reception this year, stating that the team’s success in the World Cup and Ashes has created momentum.

“There’s different reasons behind that. I understand that. I come from South Australia where they are very passionate. I look forward to the support from the crowd and I think we’ll get that,” Head said.

Australia’s summer of cricket officially kicks off in WA this week with the first Test against Pakistan at Optus Stadium starting Thursday afternoon.

It remains to be seen whether the crowd will offer a warmer reception to the team this year, but the issue of Langer’s exit continues to be a sensitive one for many fans.

Both Matthews and Head’s comments highlight the importance of clear communication and respect in handling such sensitive personnel matters. With a new season underway, let’s hope that the focus can shift back to the sport itself and that the fans will show their support for the Australian team.