New Delhi: ODI specialist John Hastings seems to be enjoying life under Australia skipper Steve Smith.
The 30-year-old was among the most impressive bowlers during India's recent tour Down Under, picking up 14 wickets in 4 ODIs and 1 T20I.
Hastings appears to be the beneficiary of a relaxed team environment, which has been developed due to the leadership of Smith and coach Darren Lehmann.
Having played the initial part of his career under Michael Clarke, Hastings compared the two skipper Aussie skippers during a radio interview in Melbourne last week.
“Not to take anything away from the boys when I played back whenever it was… It's just different. I don't know whether it's because I was younger, I was a bit more afraid to speak up and speak my mind. Darren Lehmann and Steve Smith have created an environment where everyone is equal, honesty is the key and communication is the key,” Hastings said on RSN radio.
"When you have those key factors in your side, it just breeds a really good culture and environment. For me it's brilliant. I can just go in and be yourself, no question is too dumb. If you think you've seen something on the field you bring it up, people don't shoot you down. It's just a really good environment," he further added.
Smith has had a solid run as captain after taking over from Clarke. While his side has continued their domination in the Test and ODI formats, Smith's real challenge will be winning the ICC World T20 in India next month.
