Under-fire Langer is backed to stay for Ashes

CRICKET Australia chief executive Nick Hockley has backed under-fire coach Justin Langer ahead of this winter’s Ashes series.

The intense management style of Langer, left, has come under increasing scrutiny, especially following Australia’s 4-1 T20 series defeat in Bangladesh. Reports of a heated exchange between

Langer and a Cricket Australia staff member in the team hotel after that embarrassing loss added to speculation over his future.

Hockley, the first Englishman to lead CA after his appointment in May, said in a statement: “Justin has done an incredible job in raising the culture, values and behaviours of the

Australian men’s team since he took on the role.

“His efforts have restored public faith in the national team, which is a side all Australians can be incredibly proud of.

“He is contracted as head coach through to the middle of next year, with the focus now on a successful T20 World Cup campaign followed by the home Ashes defence in what is one of the most anticipated series and summers of cricket in Australia for many years.”

The first Test against England starts in Brisbane on December 8.

Hockley added: “Justin, his coaching staff and the leaders within the team each have an equally important part to play in ensuring a successful summer ahead for the Australian cricket team.”

Langer’s coaching methods are understood to have been highlighted in a recent CA review, which was not made public.

The 50-year-old former batsman signed a four-year deal when he replaced Darren Lehmann as head coach in May 2018.