Coronavirus: Justin Langer urges Australia cricketers to 'find silver lining'

Russell Greaves

Coronavirus: Justin Langer urges Australia cricketers to 'find silver lining' image

Justin Langer is urging Australia's cricketers to "find some silver living" as the coronavirus pandemic continues to sweep the globe.

The outbreak of COVID-19 has forced several countries into lockdown, with sporting events across the world postponed or cancelled.

With the cricket calendar usually so relentless, Australia coach Langer - who is still preparing for the Twenty20 World Cup in October - wants his players to take the opportunity to "recharge".

"I'm trying to encourage our players to find some silver lining," he said.

"We identified in South Africa a number of our players were physically and mentally exhausted.

"We had all winter [in England] with the World Cup and the Ashes then into our summer ... it gives them a really good opportunity to recharge.

"We're looking at scenarios to make sure we'll be ready for whatever comes."

Speaking during a video call while in self-isolation, Langer confirmed he would proceed with his original schedule for telling players whether they would be centrally contracted for the 2020-21 season.

"I think we're sticking to the plan of April 2," he said. "Out of respect we'll talk to the players who have been contracted this year and who missed out on a contract."

 

 

 

Russell Greaves