Former Australian fast bowler Mitchell Johnson, on Thursday, criticized cricket legends Sunil Gavaskar and Michael Vaughan for their remarks regarding Josh Hazlewood's comment during the opening Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Perth last week. They suggested that Hazlewood's words indicated a division within the Australian dressing room.

After Australia found themselves at 12 for three at the conclusion of Day 3 in Perth, Hazlewood was asked during a media interaction about the team's strategy for the daunting chase of 534 runs set by India. He replied, “You probably have to ask one of the batters that question.”

This response led Fox commentator and Test cricket great Adam Gilchrist to inquire whether there was a "divide" between the Australian batters and bowlers. Vaughan supported Gilchrist's assertion, but Johnson rebuked Vaughan, likening his comments to those made by Ricky Ponting, who had previously expressed concerns about Virat Kohli's form and received a similar response from India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir. Johnson firmly advised Vaughan to focus on English cricket rather than commenting on Australian matters.

"Everyone seems to have an opinion these days, including individuals from countries not participating in the Test series, such as Michael Vaughan on Fox Cricket. Here we have a former England captain stirring controversy with his views on our Australian players and team ahead of the Ashes next summer. While I acknowledge Vaughan's extensive experience and understanding of the game, I fail to see why he feels compelled to comment on Australian players. His allegiance lies with England, not Australia."

'Gavaskar is using his media platform to distract, disrupt, annoy...'

The renowned Indian cricket icon did not address Hazlewood's remarks during the Test match; however, he subsequently utilized his column to cast doubt on the authenticity of the fast bowler's injury, which prevented him from participating in the second Test in Adelaide. He implied that the injury could be linked to Hazlewood's earlier comments made during the press conference.

Johnson expressed his frustration towards Gavaskar, accusing the former Indian captain of "exploiting the situation" and "irritating" the Australian team in the lead-up to the pink ball Test.

"Regarding Gavaskar and his commentary overall - I have appreciated collaborating with him in the past and have gained significant insights simply by listening to his discussions about the game - his perspective this week serves merely as a provocation. Gavaskar is leveraging his media presence to distract, disrupt, irritate, and capitalize on a statement made by Hazlewood.

While it is indeed Gavaskar's role to provide commentary on his observations, this was executed solely to elicit a response and support India," he articulated.

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