Former Australia Test captain Tim Paine has highlighted the contrasting perspectives between Travis Head and former coach Justin Langer, which hindered the batter's ability to excel in the past. Paine disclosed that Langer encouraged Head to focus on improving his defensive skills, while Head sought greater freedom to express his batting style, resulting in a challenging period for him on the field.

Justin Langer assumed leadership of the Australian team during a difficult period following the sandpaper scandal and stepped down after securing victory in the Ashes series of 2021/22. His tenure was marked by reports of discord between players and the coaching staff. However, since the beginning of 2022, Head has emerged as a crucial member of Australia's Test squad, receiving support from captain Pat Cummins and head coach Andrew McDonald to play his natural game.

Following Head's decisive performance against India in Adelaide, Paine noted the differences in opinion between the left-handed batter and Langer, which adversely affected Head's performance.

"I believe neither of them would object to me stating this, but there was a significant difference of opinion between him and JL," Paine remarked on SEN Breakfast.

Paine elaborated on how Langer and his coaching team urged Head to enhance his defensive technique, and although Head made efforts to meet these expectations, he struggled to find success.

"You had Test legends in the commentary box and a Test great (Langer) coaching, along with Graeme Hick, who had amassed 101 First Class hundreds as his batting coach, all providing guidance. They were genuinely trying to help him improve his defence, but that was not the direction he wished to pursue. As a young Test player eager to make an impression and secure his place in the team, he was attempting to satisfy various expectations," he added.

‘Travis Head is sticking true to the way he wants to play’

The dynamic batsman has accumulated 2,012 runs in 29 Test matches since the beginning of 2022, boasting an average of 43.73, which includes five centuries.

Paine emphasized that Head's success in recent performances can be attributed to his commitment to playing his natural style.

"I believe this has been the key factor in his increased performance, as he remains true to his preferred method of play," he remarked.

The former Australian captain acknowledged that while Head's aggressive style positions him as a potential match-winner, it does not ensure consistent scoring in every game, and he will inevitably experience periods of underperformance.

"There will be times when he struggles and phases where he is less productive, but his aggressive nature will persist; he will continue to play his shots and strive to be a match-winner. We are currently witnessing his development across all formats of the game," he concluded.

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