Have a great respect for the way Indians play their cricket: McDermott

CHENNAI: As Australia get ready to take on Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy Group A clash at the Oval on Monday, former Australian fast bowler Craig McDermott hopes it will be Steve Smith’s side’s day. “Australia does have a quality side in their ranks but one can’t take Bangladesh lightly. Teams such as Bangladesh have the ability to surprise you and they have been playing some very good cricket of late.I expect a keenly-fought clash,” McDermott told TOI on Monday.
McDermott felt Australia do have the team that can go deep into the competition. “We have one of the most potent fast bowling units in the business and our batting too appears strong. It will all boil down to getting the bearings right on the given day,” pointed out McDermott, who pocketed 291 wickets from 71 Tests at an impressive average of 28.63. More importantly, McDermott had a stellar role to play in Australia winning its maiden World Cup crown in the sub-continent back in 1987.
McDermott, who has been part of the Australian coaching unit for five years, has now applied for the Indian coach’s position. “I have a great deal of respect for the way Indians play their cricket. I have always enjoyed watching Virat Kohli play and his aggression has been a big plus for the Indian cricket. Being the head coach of a team has always been something I have wanted to do. I have the experience of being part of the Australian set up and have enjoyed a fair amount of success,” mentioned McDermott. He is pleased with the all-round side that India possesses at the moment.
“They have a great bunch of fast bowlers and there is a lot of variety in their ranks. India have been playing top-notch cricket for some time now and they have been led brilliantly by Kohli,” said McDermott. For the 52-year-old, coaching is a role that’s not just restricted to cricket alone. “A good coach must have great man-management skills. It is about ensuring you maintain a healthy relationship with your players and the captain,” pointed out McDermott.