Steven Smith, Tim Paine, David Warner, 2019 Ashes
Paine says Smith and Warner will be crucial for Australia in 2019 Ashes. Image Courtesy: Getty

Suspended Australia duo, Steven Smith and David Warner will play a crucial role in the 2019 Ashes in England, says the team Test captain Tim Paine. As Australia completed a clean-sweep (2-0) over Sri Lanka at home, Paine laid down the plans for the winter Ashes. Speaking to the media post the game, the skipper said the tainted duo will not only be back but will also a significant hand in helping Oz retain the urn.

They have served the punishments – Paine

On Monday, Australia ended their home summer on a high beating a team in Tests in over one year now. Also, it was the first time under Paine, the Aussies have bagged a Test series. Meanwhile, they had suffered the wrath at the hands of India earlier, surrendering the Border-Gavaskar trophy at home.

However, with the recent win, the fortunes could be changing for Australia. Speaking about drafting Smith and Warner straight in the side after their bans end; Tim reckoned the pair has served their punishment, and would now like to score a lot of runs in cricket.

Steven Smith, David Warner, 2019 Ashes, Tim Paine
Paine says the suspended duo will play a key role for Australia in the winter Ashes. Image Courtesy: Getty

“I think everyone to a degree has to earn their stripes. I think those two have got plenty of runs in the bank if you like,” Paine said when asked if they could slot straight back in. “Look, I see us going to the Ashes and them having a huge part in us winning the series. That’s how I see how important they are to this team.

The wicketkeeper-batsman further noted Steven Smith and David Warner would be welcomed and they will win Australia games like they used to do it before.

“We know how good they are and hopefully once their bans are up they’ll be welcomed back and they will win Test matches like they did before.”

I have been dreaming about leading Australia in Ashes – Paine

Only after Smith got barred from international cricket following his involvement in the sandpaper gate, Tim Paine was asked to lead Australia across ODIs and Tests. Though he had been relieved of his duties in the 50-over format, Paine is currently captaining the Australian in Tests.

On 2019 Ashes, Tim added he had been dreaming about walking on the field as the Aussie captain in Ashes. He further added the urn holders could not wait to step in England and began the proceedings.

“I’ve been dreaming about it actually,” he said. “I’m happy now that we’ve got this (Sri Lanka series) out of the way and I can put everything into it because every Australian cricketer can’t wait to go and play an Ashes series, particularly in England.”

Meanwhile, Australia’s next assignment in Tests will the winter Ashes in England, which begins on August 1st in Birmingham.

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