‘There's opinions that we respect and…’ - Andrew McDonald on chances of Pat Cummins stepping down as Test Captain after 4th Ashes 2023 Test

Pat Cummins and Andrew McDonald (Image Source: Twitter)

The fourth match of the ongoing Ashes 2023 ended in a draw as rain played a spoilsport on day five. Thus, the series remained 2-1 with one more match to go. However, with that result, Australia already managed to retain the ashes as they will now look to win this ongoing series by avoiding a loss.

Meanwhile, some questions popped up about Pat Cummins’ captaincy as England were in the driving seat in the fourth Test. After winning the first two Test, the home side won the third match while being much ahead in the fourth one. But, the Australia head coach Andrew McDonald dismissed any chances of Cummins stepping down from the position ahead of the last clash.

“Result is the same as <2019> but feeling is different.” - Pat Cummins

While speaking to reporters, McDonald said: "What I would say is leadership takes on all different shapes and forms and we're living and dying in the world of tactics only. I think it's fair and reasonable to critique some of the execution and tactics that we implemented but to go as far as suggesting that the captain resigns post-series, I think it would be far-fetched."

"There's opinions that we respect and there's opinions that we don't. We're all working on the Australian cricket team together. It should never really come down to Pat as an individual but unfortunately, as a captain, sometimes you wear that," he further added. 

After the fourth Test, Cummins said: "Our preference is to come over and win, but nice to retain, something to be proud of. Result is the same as <2019> but feeling is different. Doesn't change how we look at the Oval next week. In the last year or two, . It'll be special, but more special if we get a win. I feel pretty good, I had a bit of a break leading in, and I haven't bowled as many overs as in 2019. Not at my best this week, but be alright for the next one.”