Warner
David Warner and Steven Smith. Credits: Getty Images/CA

Australia’s BBL boss Kim McConnie has cleared the air that there is no chance for David Warner and Steven Smith. Thus, McConnie has settled the rumors for one and all.

It was reported that Warner and Smith can make their way back during the fag end of the domestic season. However, Cricket Australia had also denied any such developments.

Warner
David Warner and Steven Smith. Credits: Getty Images/CA

There isn’t going to be any Steven Smith and David Warner magic in BBL season 8.

Both Smith and Warner were handed over a ban of one year after their involvement in the ball tampering scandal. Thus, it had taken the Australian Cricket by a massive blow.

“Both players have done a really good job and accepted the ruling from Cricket Australia.  They won’t be appearing in the BBL this season. I think every player who plays cricket, we love to think that they talk about the Big Bash and promote the tournament. But beyond being cricket players themselves that have a love of the format, there’ll be no formal relationship,” McConnie told AAP.

Meanwhile, the schedule of the Big Bash League will be announced on Wednesday. In the absence of Australia’s linchpins, McConnie is looking forward to giving an opportunity to the young players.

“We’ve got so many heroes within our current league, and what we’re going to be focusing on this season is really making sure that we bring some of those younger players that we’re developing in our own system. So we’re going to have some star power but it’s also about promoting the generation coming through the T20 format as well,” McConnie said.

David Warner
David Warner. Image Courtesy: Getty Images

On the other hand, Shane Watson was not happy with the strict bans on the duo of Smith and Warner. Watson said that both Smith and Warner are promoting other countries T20 leagues. However, they should be taking BBL to new heights. The former Australian skipper and vice-captain had played in the Global Canada T20 League recently.

“The thing that just disappoints me about the whole situation is now Steve Smith and Dave Warner are over promoting other tournaments by playing in them,” Watson said.

“I understand the rulings … but for them to have the opportunity to go and promote other tournaments, I’d prefer if they’re going to do that and have access to do that (that) they have access to promote the Big Bash, for example.

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