Langer backs Hayden

by Red Sun 09 Nov 2008, 01:59

He doesn't agree with some suggestions that he's nearing the end and expects him to do well against the kiwis and Africans and to be on the plane to England.

Justin Langer backs Matthew : November 09, 2008 12:00am

FORMER Test batsman Justin Langer has jumped to the defence of Matthew Hayden, predicting his former opening partner would dominate attacks this summer and be a vital member of the squad that embarks on next year's Ashes tour.

Langer, who will play in Friday's Twenty20 All Star match at the Gabba, said his close mate would rise to the occasion against New Zealand, South Africa and England.

After failing to score a half-century in his first four knocks in India, Hayden bounced back with 83 in third Test and looked in control until run out for 16 in the fourth Test.

"You never write off a champion, no matter what sport and Matthew Hayden is an absolute legend of the game," Langer said.

"I remember in the 2005 Ashes, there was talk about his form. Then he scored a hundred in the last Test, which led to hundreds in his next four Tests.

"The great players have lean trots from time to time, but they always bounce back.

"Haydos copped a couple of shocking decisions in those early Tests in India, but is now getting his groove back.

"He is into his habits and routines that have served him so well for so long. As far as Australian cricket goes - look out.

"The South Africa series will be huge and the Ashes is massive and I'm sure he will be preparing well and ready to fight hard.

"He has his 100th Test coming up soon so he has plenty to play for and we all know how much he loves the challenge of performing on the big stage."

Meanwhile, Langer said criticism of Australia's performances in the Border-Gavaskar trophy was unjustified as playing on the sub-continent had brought the greatest teams unstuck.

He said Australia's series win in India in 2004, which broke a 35-year drought, was the highlight of his career that featured 7696 runs in 105 Tests.

"People have to put into perspective that India is the hardest place in the world to play cricket," he said.

"There is no doubt about that for many reasons.

"The series we won over there a few years ago was, without doubt, the pinnacle of my cricket career. It was tough when we had Shane Warne in the side, so I think the boys have performed admirably.

"They have never waved the white flag and have fought as hard as they can."

Langer, 37, will play for the Rajasthan Royals in the next Indian Premier League competition, after fulfilling his duties with English county club Somerset.