Under Langer’s stewardship, Steve Smith and David Warner returned as senior batters for Australia, and the team evolved.
“So many positives to what (Langer) brought to the table. He was the perfect man for the time. He did a fantastic job,” Cummins said. “We’ve been well-schooled over the last four years by JL in how to conduct ourselves. He’s got unimpeachable values. I think he’s what we needed … he’s made us better people, better players.
“Now we’re really well versed in what that is. In terms of the coaching style and where we want to take the team, a slightly different style is needed.”
Langer on Sunday issued a statement apologizing if his intensity in the coaching environment caused problems for the players.
Cummins noted Langer’s acknowledgement, saying the 51-year-old was intense, but the players were OK with it, and added: “I think the apology was unnecessary.”
“It came from a good place — and his fierce love of Australia and the baggy green (Australia’s test cricket cap) — something which has served Australian cricket well for three decades,” Cummins said. “It’s what makes him a legend of the sport. And Justin’s intensity drove a better team culture and higher team standards.”
Cummins said Langer left significant legacies, and he thanked him on behalf of the players.
“More than that, we owe him a lot and Justin will be a welcome face in the change room in the future,” he said. “So, his intensity was not the issue for players and the support staff.”
In terms of the criticism from ex-players, Cummins said, “I can hold my head high.”
“To all past players, I want to say this: Just as you have always stuck up for your mates, I’m sticking up for mine.”