Steven Smith and David Warner Likely to Return from Ban During Pakistan ODIs

Banned Australian duo Steven Smith and David Warner are in line for a return from ball-tampering bans during the One-Day International (ODI) series against Pakistan in UAE. However, a five-match ODI series hosted by Pakistan will take place in March next year. The teams will look to fine-tune for the next year’s World Cup in England and Wales.

Smith and Warner may return to the Australia squad

The one-year ban imposed by Cricket Australia will expire on Match 29, 2019. Moreover, if the dates are confirmed, Steven Smith and David Warner would return to the Australian team within 48 hours of their suspension lifting. The five matches could be valuable for Australian coach to refine the players ahead of the World Cup.

“There’s potential for that, but that’s part of the process (to work through to reintegrate the banned players). There’s a lot of conversations going on about what’s best for our bowlers, for the guys returning, and we’ll work through that. We’ll get the best outcome for Australian cricket and for them personally, but there’s been no decisions made at this stage.” Justin Langer told reporters.

Furthermore, Steven Smith is all set to play the Pakistan Super League (PSL). On the other hand, David Warner will lead the Sylhet Sixers in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL).

“These days, the way the one-day game is played it’s almost an extended T20, so T20 cricket is a good way to prepare,” Smith told reporters last week.

Recently, Bangladesh Cricket Board debarred Steven Smith from participating in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). It had happened after some franchises appealed against his illegal entry into the league. However, with Pakistan Super League and the Indian Premier League in line, Smith wants to cement his place in Australia’s 2019 World Cup squad.

“The IPL is one of the best (T20) tournaments around the world and from what I’ve heard about the Pakistan league, it’s high quality, so I think that will be adequate preparation,” the former Australian captain added.