Following the Hurricanes’ win over the Renegades in the Big Bash League, it is quite clear that Darren Lehmann and Brett Lee do not see eye-to-eye regarding the coaching setup of the national team.
The former Australian teammates clashed when it came to discussing the role of having a full-time bowling coach as part of the national setup. This comes following the sacking of bowling coach, David Saker, earlier in the week.
Indeed, Lee claimed that many international bowlers are surrounded by such a plethora of coaching voices to the point that they are “over-coached.” Instead, Lee called for a new national bowling coach to be hired on a part-time basis as opposed to instating someone in a full-time position. Lee said that the influence a full-time bowling coach could have on the team was limited, suggesting that the coach should only come in before tournaments and at the beginning of the season.
Suffice to say, former Australian coach, Lehmann, completely disagreed with the former bowler. In fact, Lehmann suggested that a full-time bowling coach was vital to the core bowling group. He said that the bowlers would need to rely on a trusted figure, particularly during periods of poor form.
However, Lehmann’s points did nothing to sway Lee from his argument, as the former Australian speedster continued. He suggested that there were too many people influencing the national team and that it was likely to the detriment of the bowlers’ performances.
Starc finds form putting spotlight on Saker
If there’s one thing that supports Lee’s arguments it’s the recent rejuvenation in Starc’s form. Indeed, Starc revealed that he spoke to his state bowling coach, Andre Adams, ignoring other critics. Quite damningly, he made no mention of Saker when rationalising how he regained his best form.
Cricket Australia is yet to announce any changes to the structure of the bowling coach position. Saker held the role since 2016 and has been replaced by Troy Cooley for the upcoming ODI series against India and Pakistan.