Brett Lee counters Shane Warne, Michael Clarke's criticism of Tim Paine

Australia's Test captain Tim Paine has been subjected to criticism from all corners after his dismal performance in recently concluded Border-Gavaskar series. player has received flak both for his underwhelming outings as a wicketkeeper, as well as his ordinary decision-making skills as leer of side. While several ex-Australian cricketers have lambasted 36-year-old for losing closely fought series, Brett Lee has come forward to show some support for player. 

India vs Australia 4th Test: Brett Lee comes to rescue of Tim Paine 

wicketkeeper-batsman was handed captaincy of Australian Test team post unceremonious exit of Steve Smith after infamous Sandpapergate incident. While player has enjoyed decent success in position, he has been under fire after Australia failed to reclaim Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite India t taking field with ir preferred playing eleven due to ir injury woes, home team failed to penetrate through Ajinkya Rahane-led side's resilience. 

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Former Australian cricketer, Shane Warne, h also suggested while commentating during game that embarrassing loss could spark a major fallout within team. spin wizard was also unimpressed with Tim Paine's leership tactics. Apart from Shane Warne, former captain Michael Clarke has also expressed doubts regarding side's captaincy.

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Speaking on Big Sports Breakfast, Michael Clarke suggested that hosts were a little too scared of losing games. According to 39-year-old, Australia opted a negative approach during certain sts of series and did t go all guns blazing to win contests. Having set an impressive target of 328 for visitors, Australia needed 10 wickets on Day 5 to clinch series. However, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Rishabh Pant showcased exemplary batsmanship to successfully chase down total in heroic fashion. 

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Former Australian fast bowler, Brett Lee countered all criticism around Tim Paine's leership and sided with wicketkeeper. In a conversation with foxsports.com.au,  ex-cricketer appreciated Paine's captaincy and mentioned how team could have opted different plans during Sydney Test, but also pointed out that Australian captain was under immense pressure during situation. Brett Lee also stated that all wicketkeepers have b days behind stumps, and his skills should t be judged on basis of a form slump. Lee also opined that Paine is a technically sound batsman, and commended him for his performances with bat. 

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India vs Australia 4th Test: Ajinkya Rahane and co. retain  Border-Gavaskar Trophy 

Im source: Cricket.com.au Twitter