'I don't know how that could be true': Pat Cummins defends George Bailey over criticism for relationship with players
Updated . First published at
Pat Cummins has defended Australia's chairman of selectors George Bailey after he was subject to criticism from former Australian coach Darren Lehmann.
Speaking on ABC Radio, Lehmann claimed Bailey is "too close" to the current playing group with a number of players under the pump to make runs.
"In my opinion, he's too close to the team," Lehmann said.
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"I would like him sitting up watching in a selectors' box somewhere and be able to make his own decisions.
Pat Cummins has defended George Bailey after criticism from Darren Lehmann. Getty/Nine
"My preference is the selector to be able to make decisions within a selection group and deliver a hard message if they have to; make a hard decision if they have to for the betterment of Australian cricket.
"Now, you can't do that sometimes if you're too close because you actually get too emotional and you care about the players."
Asked about the comments following his side's draw at the Gabba, Cummins was defiant in his defence.
"I don't know how that could be true," he said.
"There's so much more to picking a side than just looking at the internet ... (it includes) going on with really strong philosophies, working with players.
"Of course, the most important thing is you do stay objective. I think the selection panel are amazing at that. They've made some really bold calls over the last couple of years in all formats, probably bolder than I'd seen other selectors make over the previous years.
"They've never shied away from a tough decision. I think what George brings to the role is amazing, and I think you'd hear that from the guys in the side but also the state guys and everyone outside it."
