‘On the nose’: ‘Indulgent’ claim riles defiant Cummins

Australian captain Pat Cummins says he’s not worried by the prospect of being booed by the parochial Western Australian crowd at Optus Stadium.

Exactly how many supporters turn up might be another issue, with reports of slow ticket sales for the match.

But with Perth’s favourite son Justin Langer ousted from the national coaching job last summer, there’s suggestions the Australian players may not receive such a favourable reception during the first Test.

Speaking to Oliver Peterson from Nine Radio’s 6PR, Cummins said he had no control over what the fans do.

“That’s up to them, I’m a grown man, I don’t think I’d ever go and sit in a crowd and boo someone,” he explained.

“If people want to do that, what are you going to do? We’re going to be out there trying our best.

“We’re passionate, we’re motivated, we’re going to give it a good crack.”

Pressed as to whether the team was “on the nose” with the public, particularly in Perth, Cummins denied there was a problem.

“I think it’s a bit different to our lived experience,” he said.

“We’ve been really well received over the last 12 months.

“I know some people might not agree with headlines or whatever, but it’s got nothing to do with what we’re doing out there.”

The Australian captain has been in the headlines in recent months over claims he pressured Cricket Australia to end a $40 million sponsorship with Alinta Energy, reports he has denied.

Langer’s ongoing beef over the way his time as coach came to an end exploded back into the public domain last week, when he referred to the “cowards” within Australian cricket that have been leaking against him.

“I think off-field issues never really help. I think sometimes they’re probably seen as a little bit indulgent,” Cummins explained.

“I think the players have been fantastic.

“I don’t think we’ve publicly done anything but talk up the game.”