How Buddy Franklin’s demolition of West Coast in Round 1 could inspire the Australian Test Team

Australian cricket coach Justin Langer admits he’s been “tapping into” the mind of premiership-winning West Coast mentor Adam Simpson in the lead up to the First Test.

Langer is on the Eagles’ board of directors.

He told Sportsday the club’s first round loss to Sydney – where Lance Franklin ripped the Eagles apart in their first game at Optus Stadium – could even be used as an example for the national cricket team.

“I talk about this a lot actually,” Langer said on 3AW.

“The first game of the year when Buddy Franklin kicked eight at the new stadium and we lost the game … but the boys played with such spirit.

“They got beaten by a good team but an outstanding player in Franklin.

“But they kept the spirit up, despite the challenges, despite some injuries, the spirit was great all year.

“I’ve learned so much being involved with West Coast.”

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