“So much more to picking a side than just looking at the internet” - Pat Cummins hits back at ex-Australia coach during BGT 2024-25

Australia captain Pat Cummins has defended chief selector George Bailey's unorthodox approach to his role after criticism from former Australia batter and coach Darren Lehmann. Bailey, the former captain, has been Australia's chief selector since 2021 and has worked closely with both Cummins and Andrew McDonald.

Bailey first received blame from former wicket-keeper Ian Healy for going onto the ground to congratulate the Indian squad after their 295-run win in Perth during the series opener. Lehmann, while commentating during the third test, insinuated that Bailey is too close to the squad, which affects his judgment when it comes to selection because of the emotional component that comes along inadvertently.

"A lot of players go too long before retiring or being forced out. Or selectors aren't strong enough to actually stop players playing. Are players playing too long? History shows in the last little bit, maybe they have been," Lehmann said on commentary (via ABC Sport).

"In my opinion, he's too close to the team. I would like him sitting up watching in a selectors' box somewhere and be able to make his own decisions," he added.

Bailey has been part of the traveling contingent constantly, a rare sight in international cricket since selectors generally tend to work completely behind the scenes.

Pat Cummins, however, stated how Bailey's presence in the side has been beneficial. He added that watching the team from close quarters has led to better decision-making, instead of the other way round.

"I don't know how that (criticism) can be true. There is so much more to picking a side than just looking at the internet. Going on with really strong philosophies, working with players. The most important thing is you do stay objective and I think the selection panel are amazing at that," Cummins told reporters after the third Test (via Yahoo Sports)

Bailey's reign as selector has seen silverware coming their way. The nation bagged both the World Test Championship (WTC) and the ODI World Cup in the same year in 2023, with the trio of Cummins, Bailey, and McDonald playing a huge role behind the scenes.

"Probably bolder than I have seen other selectors make in previous years" - Pat Cummins on George Bailey's decision-making at the helm

With a major transition imminent, and several senior players in the team being challenged by upcoming prospects, Australia will need tough decisions more than ever for the long-term health of the side.

"They've made some really bold calls over the past couple of years in all formats. Probably bolder than I have seen other selectors make in previous years. They've never shied away from a tough decision. What George brings to the role is amazing and I think you would hear that from guys in the side, but also from state guys as well," Cummins added

Some tricky calls are on the horizon, with Australia set to tour Sri Lanka for a two-match Test series in early 2025.