Lehmann dismisses Warne’s criticism over Peter Siddle’s selection

Johannesburg: Australian coach Darren Lehmann has downplayed the criticism made by legendary spinner Shane Warne over the selection of pacer Peter Siddle in the fifth and final Ashes Test played at Kennington Oval.

Lehmann said that Siddle was brilliant and he was very pleased with the way he bowled during the Test match, Sport24 reported.

He insisted that although Siddle was not as fast as other members of the pace-attack, he provided them the much needed element of control in the field.

The former Australian batsman added that former players like Warne would always have an opinion, adding that the latter wasn’t aware of the happenings behind the scenes.

Warne, during his commentary, had repeatedly suggested that the 30-year-old paceman should have been picked for the fourth Test, adding that it would have been better if the selectors would picked a younger bowler such as Pat Cummins in the Ashes finale.

Siddle, who was playing his first match of the series, was by far Australia’s best bowler, taking four for 35 in England’s second innings as Australia won by an innings and 46 runs on Sunday. (ANI)