Hyderabad's star batsman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-ipl-2019-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-rajasthan-royals-at-rajiv-gandhi-international-stadium-206539">David Warner struck a blistering fifty</a> as his side defeated Rajasthan by five wickets to register their first win in the ongoing edition Indian Premier League at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday.&nbsp;

Opting to bat, Rajasthan&nbsp;posted a mammoth total&nbsp;of 198 runs with the help of&nbsp;Sanju Samson's second IPL century but his ton&nbsp;went in vain, as chasing a mammoth 199-run target, Warner set up the platform for Hyderabad with a breezy 69 off 37 balls and together with Jonny Bairstow (45 off 28) added a century stand for the opening wicket to spoil Rajasthan's day.&nbsp;

Apart from Warner, skipper Kane Williamson (14) and Vijay Shankar (35 off 15) played aggressively to bring down the equation within reach but three quick wickets, that too in consecutive balls of Shreyas Gopal (3/27) in the 16th over, changed the complexion of the game.&nbsp;

But Yusuf Pathan (16 not out) and Rashid Khan (15 not out) played sensibly to overwhelm the target with ease.

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A brilliant shot to finish the innings from <a href="https://twitter.com/rashidkhan_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashidkhan_19</a> 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunRisers</a> win by 5 wickets <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvRR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvRR</a> <a href="https://t.co/kGm5HqIWXy">pic.twitter.com/kGm5HqIWXy</a>
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In the first innings, Rahane led from the front with 49-ball 70 and together with Samson shared 119 runs for the second wicket to set the base for the total.&nbsp;

Introduced into the attack in the fourth over, Rashid (1/24) struck with only his second ball, cleaning up Jos Buttler around his legs.

After Buttler's dismissal, skipper Rahane was joined at the crease by Samson and the duo played cautiously without taking any undue risk to take Rajasthan forward.&nbsp;

Rahane registered his first fifty of the ongoing IPL in 38 balls while Samson brought up his half-century in 34 deliveries as the duo raised 100-run stand for the second wicket in 65 balls.

Hyderabad's star batsman David Warner struck a blistering fifty as his side defeated Rajasthan by five wickets to register their first win in the ongoing edition Indian Premier League at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday.

Hyderabad's star batsman David Warner struck a blistering fifty as his side defeated Rajasthan by five wickets to register their first win in the ongoing edition Indian Premier League at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday. Opting to bat, Rajasthan posted a mammoth total of 198 runs with the help of Sanju Samson's second IPL century but his ton went in vain, as chasing a mammoth 199-run target, Warner set up the platform for Hyderabad with a breezy 69 off 37 balls and together with Jonny Bairstow (45 off 28) added a century stand for the opening wicket to spoil Rajasthan's day. Apart from Warner, skipper Kane Williamson (14) and Vijay Shankar (35 off 15) played aggressively to bring down the equation within reach but three quick wickets, that too in consecutive balls of Shreyas Gopal (3/27) in the 16th over, changed the complexion of the game. But Yusuf Pathan (16 not out) and Rashid Khan (15 not out) played sensibly to overwhelm the target with ease. A brilliant shot to finish the innings from @rashidkhan_19 The @SunRisers win by 5 wickets #SRHvRR pic.twitter.com/kGm5HqIWXy — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 29, 2019 × In the first innings, Rahane led from the front with 49-ball 70 and together with Samson shared 119 runs for the second wicket to set the base for the total. Introduced into the attack in the fourth over, Rashid (1/24) struck with only his second ball, cleaning up Jos Buttler around his legs. After Buttler's dismissal, skipper Rahane was joined at the crease by Samson and the duo played cautiously without taking any undue risk to take Rajasthan forward. Rahane registered his first fifty of the ongoing IPL in 38 balls while Samson brought up his half-century in 34 deliveries as the duo raised 100-run stand for the second wicket in 65 balls.

IPL 2019: David Warner's blistering fifty helps Hyderabad beat Rajasthan by 5 wickets

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

One-year bans slapped on the former captain and his deputy for their part in the scandal dubbed "Sandpaper-gate" expired&nbsp;and the pair are free to play at state and international level again.

Warner was widely seen as the instigator of the plot during the third Test in Cape Town last year to use sandpaper to alter the ball, with rookie opener Cameron Bancroft carrying it out and Smith turning a blind eye.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday that star bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all intended to pull out of the fourth Test in South Africa if Warner was not removed from the team.

Citing multiple sources, it said "the revelation highlights the extent of the fracture within the dressing-room in the immediate aftermath of one of the most damaging events in Australian cricket history".

Smith and Warner's reintegration process has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team in&nbsp;Dubai&nbsp;this month. Lyon and Cummins were present, but the injured Starc and Hazlewood were not.

Asked whether relations had been patched up sufficiently for Warner's return not to be disruptive, Roberts compared the situation to any other workplace.

"What we're focused on is doing everything we can to support Dave, Steve, Cameron and all of the other support staff with this integration... to build harmony rather than to disrupt the harmony that is building," he said at the Melbourne Press Club Thursday.

"At the same time, let's be open about it -- in any workplace you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there."

He added that Smith, Warner, and Bancroft had all "owned their mistakes, they've paid a price and have served their time".

The "Sandpaper-gate" scandal triggered far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket.

Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and all the top brass from Cricket Australia left after a scathing review said their "arrogant and controlling" win-at-all-costs culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules.

'Bloody hard'

Reflecting on the past year, Roberts said "our highest priority now is rebuilding trust both within and around cricket".

"We've seen tangible change at the board level, the executive level, we've got a new men's coach and a relatively new men's Test captain.

"Those are some of the tangible changes. But much more importantly the really important intangible change is that we are now very clear about what we stand for.

"Everything we do now at Cricket Australia is about uniting and inspiring communities through cricket."

He added that while Australian teams were determined to win, "we have a non-negotiable expectation that we compete with respect".

While it has been assumed that Smith and Warner will waltz back in for the World Cup, the team's form in recent weeks has given selectors a major headache.

Australia's win over Pakistan on Wednesday was their sixth-straight one-day victory, sealing back-to-back series wins abroad for the first time since 2016 after also beating India.

Skipper Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell have all been in good nick at the top of the order.

"It is bloody hard," Finch admitted of World Cup selection. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult.&nbsp;

"At the end of the day, they're the selectors and it's an incredibly tough decision."

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.

Australian cricket chief Kevin Roberts insisted the return of Steve Smith and David Warner will not disrupt the resurgent team as a report on Friday revealed senior players threatened a boycott in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal. One-year bans slapped on the former captain and his deputy for their part in the scandal dubbed "Sandpaper-gate" expired and the pair are free to play at state and international level again. Warner was widely seen as the instigator of the plot during the third Test in Cape Town last year to use sandpaper to alter the ball, with rookie opener Cameron Bancroft carrying it out and Smith turning a blind eye. The Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday that star bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon all intended to pull out of the fourth Test in South Africa if Warner was not removed from the team. Citing multiple sources, it said "the revelation highlights the extent of the fracture within the dressing-room in the immediate aftermath of one of the most damaging events in Australian cricket history". Smith and Warner's reintegration process has already begun with the pair meeting the one-day team in Dubai this month. Lyon and Cummins were present, but the injured Starc and Hazlewood were not. Asked whether relations had been patched up sufficiently for Warner's return not to be disruptive, Roberts compared the situation to any other workplace. "What we're focused on is doing everything we can to support Dave, Steve, Cameron and all of the other support staff with this integration... to build harmony rather than to disrupt the harmony that is building," he said at the Melbourne Press Club Thursday. "At the same time, let's be open about it -- in any workplace you don't need to be best mates with everyone, but there needs to be a foundation of respect and I think there is growing respect there." He added that Smith, Warner, and Bancroft had all "owned their mistakes, they've paid a price and have served their time". The "Sandpaper-gate" scandal triggered far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket. Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and all the top brass from Cricket Australia left after a scathing review said their "arrogant and controlling" win-at-all-costs culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules. 'Bloody hard' Reflecting on the past year, Roberts said "our highest priority now is rebuilding trust both within and around cricket". "We've seen tangible change at the board level, the executive level, we've got a new men's coach and a relatively new men's Test captain. "Those are some of the tangible changes. But much more importantly the really important intangible change is that we are now very clear about what we stand for. "Everything we do now at Cricket Australia is about uniting and inspiring communities through cricket." He added that while Australian teams were determined to win, "we have a non-negotiable expectation that we compete with respect". While it has been assumed that Smith and Warner will waltz back in for the World Cup, the team's form in recent weeks has given selectors a major headache. Australia's win over Pakistan on Wednesday was their sixth-straight one-day victory, sealing back-to-back series wins abroad for the first time since 2016 after also beating India. Skipper Aaron Finch, Usman Khawaja, Shaun Marsh, Peter Handscomb and Glenn Maxwell have all been in good nick at the top of the order. "It is bloody hard," Finch admitted of World Cup selection. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. "At the end of the day, they're the selectors and it's an incredibly tough decision."

Steve Smith, David Warner 'paid price', says Australia cricket chief as boycott threat revealed

Fitting the disgraced duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Steve+Smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=David+Warner">David Warner</a> into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch.

Both Smith and Warner are eligible to return to the national side after their 12-month suspensions for ball-tampering ended on Thursday.

Australia beat Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in their five-match ODI series, and have now won six matches in succession after coming back to defeat India 3-2 away.

Finch said it would be tough for selectors to decide who to leave out of the 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England.

"It is bloody hard," he said.

"Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. No matter who it is.

"At the end of the day ... it's an incredibly tough decision. Whatever balance you go with in that 15-man squad, there's going to be some very unlucky blokes out there."

One could be Usman Khawaja, formerly a fringe member of the one-day side, who has flourished opening the batting with Finch since his recall in January, with 609 runs at an average of 55.36.

The left-hander could make way for Warner, who has scored more than 4,300 one-day runs and 14 centuries, in an explosive opening combination with Finch.

Smith, who has only just returned from elbow surgery, would complement a middle order of Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb, with all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell providing power-hitting through the lower-middle order.

Having struggled for a period without Smith and Warner, Finch's side have shown the kind of form that propelled them to a fifth World Cup title four years ago on home soil.

Finch said consistency of selection had aided their turnaround.

"The fact that guys are getting more of an opportunity to keep developing their role, and developing the role they've been asked to play or the game demands, is gold," he said.

"That probably goes under the radar a little bit when you're looking at teams that have been successful in the past.

"I think leading up to the 2015 World Cup, we'd had the same 15 players for a good 18 months or so.

"That goes a long way, not just to your culture but just an understanding of how each other plays."

Fitting the disgraced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch.

Fitting the disgraced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner into Australia's World Cup squad will be "bloody hard" given the side's resurgence without them, according to captain Aaron Finch. Both Smith and Warner are eligible to return to the national side after their 12-month suspensions for ball-tampering ended on Thursday. Australia beat Pakistan in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in their five-match ODI series, and have now won six matches in succession after coming back to defeat India 3-2 away. Finch said it would be tough for selectors to decide who to leave out of the 15-man squad for the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England. "It is bloody hard," he said. "Especially when the side is playing so well, it's going to be difficult. No matter who it is. "At the end of the day ... it's an incredibly tough decision. Whatever balance you go with in that 15-man squad, there's going to be some very unlucky blokes out there." One could be Usman Khawaja, formerly a fringe member of the one-day side, who has flourished opening the batting with Finch since his recall in January, with 609 runs at an average of 55.36. The left-hander could make way for Warner, who has scored more than 4,300 one-day runs and 14 centuries, in an explosive opening combination with Finch. Smith, who has only just returned from elbow surgery, would complement a middle order of Shaun Marsh and Peter Handscomb, with all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell providing power-hitting through the lower-middle order. Having struggled for a period without Smith and Warner, Finch's side have shown the kind of form that propelled them to a fifth World Cup title four years ago on home soil. Finch said consistency of selection had aided their turnaround. "The fact that guys are getting more of an opportunity to keep developing their role, and developing the role they've been asked to play or the game demands, is gold," he said. "That probably goes under the radar a little bit when you're looking at teams that have been successful in the past. "I think leading up to the 2015 World Cup, we'd had the same 15 players for a good 18 months or so. "That goes a long way, not just to your culture but just an understanding of how each other plays."

Return of Steve Smith, David Warner makes for hard selections: Aaron Finch

Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad is set to face Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan in an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl-2019">Indian Premier League</a> match at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday.&nbsp;

So far the tournament is in its full swing and has seen quite enough, from some mesmerising performances to few controversies as well.&nbsp;

'Mankaded' in their opening match, Rajasthan would look to resurrect their fortunes against Hyderabad, who would also be aiming to put behind a disappointing first-day show.

Players are also focusing on giving their 100 per cent and impress their national team selectors to get a confirmed ticket to the England-bound plane for the cricket World Cup.&nbsp;

For Rajasthan, Jos Buttler looked in great touch in their opener but he would look for more support from the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson, Steve Smith and Ben Stokes in the batting department.&nbsp;

In particular, Smith, who returned to the IPL after missing the last edition following the ball-tampering scandal, would be eyeing more time at the crease ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup.

Dhawal Kulkarni and spinner Krishnappa Gowtham were brilliant upfront with the ball against Punjab, but Stokes and Jaydev Unadkat leaked runs.&nbsp;

Pacer Jofra Archer, who gave away just 17 runs in his four overs, looked threatening but wickets eluded him.

Watch the preview:

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Just like Rajasthan, Hyderabad too didn't have a dream start to their campaign, losing by six wickets to Kolkata.&nbsp;

While David Warner-led Hyderabad's batting looked solid, the death bowling performance spoiled their chances against Kolkata.&nbsp;

Warner, who is in imperious form after returning to competitive cricket following the one-year ban for ball-tampering, played true to his reputation, smashing 85 off 53 balls against Kolkata the other day.

And Hyderabad know their chances heavily depend on Warner's success even though they also have the likes of skipper Kane Williamson, Jonny Bairstow, Vijay Shankar, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan and Shakib Al Hasan in their ranks.&nbsp;

Williamson wasn't available in the first game due to injury but head coach Tom Moody indicated that he in all likelihood "will be fit for Friday's game and lead the side".&nbsp;

Hyderabad bowling unit, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, had a good outing for the most part of the match on Sunday before the Andre Russell storm blew them away in the last three overs.

Needing 53 off the last three overs, Russell hammered Bhuvneshwar and Siddharth Kaul before Shakib was taken to the cleaners by young Shubman Gill in the final over as Sunrisers lost the plot.

And come Friday, Bhuvneshwar and the rest of the attack, which also includes Rashid Khan, will be eyeing a much-improved death bowling show.

Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad is set to face Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan in an Indian Premier League match at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday. So far the tournament is in its full swing and has seen quite enough, from some mesmerising performances to few controversies as well.

Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad is set to face Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan in an Indian Premier League match at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday. So far the tournament is in its full swing and has seen quite enough, from some mesmerising performances to few controversies as well. 'Mankaded' in their opening match, Rajasthan would look to resurrect their fortunes against Hyderabad, who would also be aiming to put behind a disappointing first-day show. Players are also focusing on giving their 100 per cent and impress their national team selectors to get a confirmed ticket to the England-bound plane for the cricket World Cup. For Rajasthan, Jos Buttler looked in great touch in their opener but he would look for more support from the likes of Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson, Steve Smith and Ben Stokes in the batting department. In particular, Smith, who returned to the IPL after missing the last edition following the ball-tampering scandal, would be eyeing more time at the crease ahead of the upcoming ODI World Cup. Dhawal Kulkarni and spinner Krishnappa Gowtham were brilliant upfront with the ball against Punjab, but Stokes and Jaydev Unadkat leaked runs. Pacer Jofra Archer, who gave away just 17 runs in his four overs, looked threatening but wickets eluded him. Watch the preview: × Just like Rajasthan, Hyderabad too didn't have a dream start to their campaign, losing by six wickets to Kolkata. While David Warner-led Hyderabad's batting looked solid, the death bowling performance spoiled their chances against Kolkata. Warner, who is in imperious form after returning to competitive cricket following the one-year ban for ball-tampering, played true to his reputation, smashing 85 off 53 balls against Kolkata the other day. And Hyderabad know their chances heavily depend on Warner's success even though they also have the likes of skipper Kane Williamson, Jonny Bairstow, Vijay Shankar, Manish Pandey, Yusuf Pathan and Shakib Al Hasan in their ranks. Williamson wasn't available in the first game due to injury but head coach Tom Moody indicated that he in all likelihood "will be fit for Friday's game and lead the side". Hyderabad bowling unit, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, had a good outing for the most part of the match on Sunday before the Andre Russell storm blew them away in the last three overs. Needing 53 off the last three overs, Russell hammered Bhuvneshwar and Siddharth Kaul before Shakib was taken to the cleaners by young Shubman Gill in the final over as Sunrisers lost the plot. And come Friday, Bhuvneshwar and the rest of the attack, which also includes Rashid Khan, will be eyeing a much-improved death bowling show.

IPL 2019: Kane Williamson-led Hyderabad to host Ajinkya Rahane-led Rajasthan

Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener.&nbsp;

But unfortunately, the Orage Army failed to defend and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2019-andre-russell-steals-thrilling-win-for-kolkata-against-hyderabad-205352">lost the match to Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata</a>.&nbsp;

Putting behind the embarrassing ball-tampering scandal, that kept him out last year, the Aussie smashed three sixes and nine boundaries in his 53-ball knock.&nbsp;

His produced an entertaining performance at the Eden Gardens and earned praises for his stunning comeback. But it was one of his big sixes that really caught spectators' eye.&nbsp;

While playing the 32-year-old launched one over the ropes only for it to crash into a cameraman&nbsp;but luckily he was unhurt.&nbsp;

"This has been absolutely bludgeoned. And hit our cameraman as well – what’s he doing?" one of the commentators said.

Another said, "He’s got to duck. He wasn’t even looking. Get a helmet on son."

Watch the video:

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🧐<a href="https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF">https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF</a>
— CricBoll (@mycricboll) <a href="https://twitter.com/mycricboll/status/1109787424815833089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Watch out! Warner’s SIX lands onto cameraman <a href="https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ">https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ipl</a>
— Shekhar Singh (@Shekhar_jour) <a href="https://twitter.com/Shekhar_jour/status/1109830916572999680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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David Warner was just unstoppable : <a href="https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu">https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OrangeArmy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OrangeArmy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ">https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ</a>
— The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketTimesHQ/status/1109796634802700289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This was third-highest total against Hyderabad which was successfully chased down in IPL history.&nbsp;

The first was done by Punjab in 2014 when they chased 2016 and the second was Delhi's 186-run chase in 2017.&nbsp;

Hyderabad is a team known for its depth and variation in bowling.&nbsp;

Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener.

Australian cricketer David Warner made a stupendous Indian Premier League comeback with a scintillating 85, helping Hyderabad reach a challenging 181/3 in their campaign opener. But unfortunately, the Orage Army failed to defend and lost the match to Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata. Putting behind the embarrassing ball-tampering scandal, that kept him out last year, the Aussie smashed three sixes and nine boundaries in his 53-ball knock. His produced an entertaining performance at the Eden Gardens and earned praises for his stunning comeback. But it was one of his big sixes that really caught spectators' eye. While playing the 32-year-old launched one over the ropes only for it to crash into a cameraman but luckily he was unhurt. "This has been absolutely bludgeoned. And hit our cameraman as well – what’s he doing?" one of the commentators said. Another said, "He’s got to duck. He wasn’t even looking. Get a helmet on son." Watch the video: 🧐https://t.co/eX25CKDPvF — CricBoll (@mycricboll) March 24, 2019 × Watch out! Warner’s SIX lands onto cameraman https://t.co/nu2PBUq3tQ via @ipl — Shekhar Singh (@Shekhar_jour) March 24, 2019 × David Warner was just unstoppable : https://t.co/6eUpctkyqu#IPL2019 #DavidWarner #OrangeArmy #T20 #KKRvSRH https://t.co/IFzBEsImNQ — The Cricket Times (@CricketTimesHQ) March 24, 2019 × This was third-highest total against Hyderabad which was successfully chased down in IPL history. The first was done by Punjab in 2014 when they chased 2016 and the second was Delhi's 186-run chase in 2017. Hyderabad is a team known for its depth and variation in bowling.

Watch: David Warner hits cameraman during IPL match against Kolkata

IPL 2019: From Warner's comeback to Russell's explosive performance, key points of Kolkata vs Hyderabad match

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-ipl-2019-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-at-eden-gardens-205270">defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad</a> to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note.&nbsp;

After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens.&nbsp;

Batting first, the comeback-man David Warner struck 85 off 53 balls and shared a 118-run stand for the first wicket with wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow (39).&nbsp;

Vijay Shankar contributed unbeaten 40 in Hyderabad's total to give Kolkata a 182-run target.&nbsp;

While chasing, Kolkata suffered a bumpy start but the middle order batsmen held inspired the team towards victory.&nbsp;

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And, that's a FIFTY from <a href="https://twitter.com/NitishRana_27?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NitishRana_27</a> 😎😎 
 
His 6th in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIVOIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIVOIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKR</a> 97/3 after 13 overs. <a href="https://t.co/dXbWnTViND">pic.twitter.com/dXbWnTViND</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1109810640779042818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Andre Russell played a whirlwind unbeaten knock of 49-runs to script his side's dramatic win after Nitish Rana scored 68 at top of the batting order.&nbsp;

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note. After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens.

Dinesh Karthik-led Kolkata defeated Bhuvneshwar Kumar-led Hyderabad to start their Indian Premier League 2019 campaign on a winning note. After winning the toss, Karthik put Hyderabad to bat first at the high scoring pitch of Eden Gardens. Batting first, the comeback-man David Warner struck 85 off 53 balls and shared a 118-run stand for the first wicket with wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow (39). Vijay Shankar contributed unbeaten 40 in Hyderabad's total to give Kolkata a 182-run target. While chasing, Kolkata suffered a bumpy start but the middle order batsmen held inspired the team towards victory. And, that's a FIFTY from @NitishRana_27 😎😎 His 6th in #VIVOIPL #KKR 97/3 after 13 overs. pic.twitter.com/dXbWnTViND — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 24, 2019 × Andre Russell played a whirlwind unbeaten knock of 49-runs to script his side's dramatic win after Nitish Rana scored 68 at top of the batting order.

IPL 2019: Andre Russell steals thrilling win for Kolkata against Hyderabad

David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team <a href="Live updates | IPL 2019: Kolkata need 182 runs to win against Hyderabad">Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata</a> and help them set a &nbsp;target of 182 runs.

Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Australian batsman reached the fifty digit mark in the ninth over as he hit 12 runs in Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell’s first over.

In the absence of regular captain Kane Williamson, Warner opened the batting alongside England opening batsman Jonny Bairstow. The duo ended up sharing a 118-run partnership for the first wicket.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Twitterati absolutely enjoyed, watching Warner bat such a way on his IPL comeback. There were praises from all corners for his marvellous knock.

Here are some of the Twitter reactions:

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warner is so much better off smashing the ball than finding ways to tamper with it <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a>
— Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) <a href="https://twitter.com/gauravkalra75/status/1109775800474099712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Warner is BACK ... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2019</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1109783838769713154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Warner didn’t go anywhere...right?? Warner has issued a strong warning... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKRvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvSRH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a>
— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/1109780289604091904?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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David Warner becomes the first overseas cricketer to score over 700 runs against KKR in IPL...
— Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrokenCricket/status/1109772552321138693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Most 50+ scores in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL</a>: 
40 D Warner 
38 V Kohli 
36 G Gambhir/ S Raina 
35 Rohit Sharma 
 
What A Player 🔥❤️ 
 
Mr. IPL <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Warner?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Warner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvKKR</a>
— Cricket Freak🤷‍♂️ (@naveensurana06) <a href="https://twitter.com/naveensurana06/status/1109782720895438848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Warner scored 85 runs from 53 balls. The innings included nine boundaries and three sixes. While he came close to a century, he was dismissed off Russell when Robin Uthappa took a brilliant catch at cover. &nbsp;

The 32-year-old returned to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing the entire 2018 season due to a one-year-ban given by Cricket Australia for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.&nbsp;

David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata and help them set a target of 182 runs. Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

David Warner scored his 37th IPL half-century to propel his team Hyderabad to an exceptional start against Kolkata and help them set a target of 182 runs. Warner scored the half century during the second game of the ongoing 12th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Australian batsman reached the fifty digit mark in the ninth over as he hit 12 runs in Kolkata all-rounder Andre Russell’s first over. In the absence of regular captain Kane Williamson, Warner opened the batting alongside England opening batsman Jonny Bairstow. The duo ended up sharing a 118-run partnership for the first wicket. Meanwhile, Twitterati absolutely enjoyed, watching Warner bat such a way on his IPL comeback. There were praises from all corners for his marvellous knock. Here are some of the Twitter reactions: warner is so much better off smashing the ball than finding ways to tamper with it #KKRvSRH — Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) March 24, 2019 × Warner is BACK ... #IPL2019 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) March 24, 2019 × Warner didn’t go anywhere...right?? Warner has issued a strong warning... #KKRvSRH #IPL — Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) March 24, 2019 × David Warner becomes the first overseas cricketer to score over 700 runs against KKR in IPL... — Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) March 24, 2019 × Most 50+ scores in #IPL: 40 D Warner 38 V Kohli 36 G Gambhir/ S Raina 35 Rohit Sharma What A Player 🔥❤️ Mr. IPL #Warner #SRHvKKR — Cricket Freak🤷‍♂️ (@naveensurana06) March 24, 2019 × Warner scored 85 runs from 53 balls. The innings included nine boundaries and three sixes. While he came close to a century, he was dismissed off Russell when Robin Uthappa took a brilliant catch at cover. The 32-year-old returned to the Indian Premier League (IPL) after missing the entire 2018 season due to a one-year-ban given by Cricket Australia for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal.

IPL 2019: David Warner smashes 37th IPL fifty; Twitterati say 'welcome back'

IPL 2019, Hyderabad vs Kolkata: Players to watch out for

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup.

"I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday.

"I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs."

Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales.

Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice.

"(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said.

In-form batsman Usman Khawaja should be part of Australia's World Cup plans despite the imminent returns of Steve Smith and David Warner, former captain Ricky Ponting has said. Khawaja struck 383 runs, including two centuries, in Australia's 3-2 series win over India earlier this month and Ponting is of the view that the left-hander opener had earned his place at the World Cup. "I think we all saw over the last few weeks just how skilful a player Usman Khawaja is... and I think when you see him play like that it just makes you wonder why he doesn't do it a bit more regularly," Ponting told reporters on Tuesday. "I would be surprised if Khawaja wasn't in the (World Cup) squad. Khawaja could probably slot down at three when Warner comes in and Steve Smith might bat at four or five or something just to shore up those middle overs." Smith and Warner were suspended for their roles in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are set to be reintegrated into the team ahead of the May 30-July 14 World Cup in England and Wales. Ponting, who led Australia to World Cup glory in 2003 and 2007, said current skipper Aaron Finch would continue to lead the side at this year's tournament but former captain Smith could still be counted for advice. "(Smith) is still out on the field, so he can help Aaron Finch out," Ponting added. "I'd imagine that Aaron Finch would be leaning on Steve Smith a lot for a bit of advice, maybe leading into the games, as far as preparation is concerned."

Despite Smith-Warner return, Ricky Ponting backs Usman Khawaja to make Australia's World Cup squad

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-steve-smith-feeling-good-as-he-is-back-in-nets-after-elbow-surgery-200451">Steve Smith and David Warner</a> have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.

The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world.

Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India.

"It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday.

"A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great.&nbsp;

"It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added.

The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket.

Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules.

Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked.

"Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup.&nbsp;

"Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team."

Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments.

"It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said.

"It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left."

While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team.

Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England".

Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.

Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left.

Steve Smith and David Warner have been welcomed back into the Australian fold with "hugs and cuddles" at a team meet-up in Dubai, and said it was like they'd never left. The disgraced pair, whose year-long bans for ball-tampering expire this month, were invited by coach Justin Langer as part of their re-integration after the scandal in South Africa that rocked the cricketing world. Australia are in Dubai as they prepare for an upcoming series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates following their upset one-day series win against India. "It's been awesome. It's like we didn't really leave, the boys were very accepting of us coming in and with open arms," said Warner in audio comments supplied to AFP Sunday. "A lot of big hugs and cuddles. It's been great. "It's good to see the spirit they're in after a great series win in India and I am obviously looking forward to watching them play against Pakistan here and hopefully they win that series as well," he added. The "sandpapergate" scandal in Cape Town, which also saw opening batsman Cameron Bancroft banned for nine months, had far-reaching consequences for Australian cricket. Then-coach Darren Lehmann quit and there was a clean-out of top executives from Cricket Australia after a scathing review said its "arrogant and controlling" culture was partly to blame for players bending the rules. Australian cricket has since undergone a host of cultural changes under Langer, and Warner and Smith were brought up to speed at the meeting on how it now worked. "Making sure we're in line with team values moving forwards," Warner said of the meet-up, which also discussed the squad's preparations for the upcoming World Cup. "Obviously (we've) been out for 12 months and there has been a big change, which is great, and it's about excepting that and playing what our role should be in the team." Smith, who was stripped of the captaincy and is barred from being considered for any leadership role for a further 12 months after his ban ends, echoed Warner's comments. "It seems like some really good energy among the team at the moment," he said. "It's great to be back around the group, they've been really welcoming and almost like we've never left." While the cheating row initially unleashed a torrent of vitriol against them, that sentiment has eased significantly and they are expected to be slotted straight back into the team. Smith said the Dubai catch-up went through "the values that are instilled in the team at the moment and making sure we are on the right path looking forward to what's coming up; a huge World Cup and an Ashes series in England". Both players, who are returning from elbow injuries, are eligible for the final two games of the Pakistan series. But selectors decided it would be better to ease themselves back at the upcoming Indian Premier League.

'It's like we didn't really leave': Steve Smith, David Warner on returning to the Australian cricket team

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year.

Ponting, however, added that there won't be any internal hostility towards the former captain and vice-captain.

The two were banned for a period of 12 months for their in the aftermath of ball tampering incident against South Africa in Cape Town.&nbsp;

"I don't think it is much of a challenge internally around the players," Ponting told cricket.com.au.&nbsp;

"You'd like to think that those guys are having conversations now, so they're not leaving it to the last minute and just be exposed to this thing that could be derailing to a team.

"I'm sure this would have been talked about at a higher level for a long time - how do we integrate them back in? How do they fit in? How is it all going to be seamless?

"But the hardest part for those guys is going to be the public perception of us, especially in England. They`re coming back into a World Cup in the UK - they shouldn`t be expecting too many pats on the back over there," he said.

"They`re going to cop it everywhere they go. They`ve got to know that, they`ve got to accept that and understand that.

"The team needs to as well, because that could also be something that could be unsettling for a team," he added.

Despite their bans getting over before the fourth ODI in Dubai, the two&nbsp;weren't named in Australia's final World Cup buildup in the UAE, an upcoming five-match series against Pakistan,

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year.

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting Tuesday said banned Steve Smith and David Warner's return won't be easy as he expects fan hostility and intense media scrutiny during the ICC World Cup in England, later this year. Ponting, however, added that there won't be any internal hostility towards the former captain and vice-captain. The two were banned for a period of 12 months for their in the aftermath of ball tampering incident against South Africa in Cape Town. "I don't think it is much of a challenge internally around the players," Ponting told cricket.com.au. "You'd like to think that those guys are having conversations now, so they're not leaving it to the last minute and just be exposed to this thing that could be derailing to a team. "I'm sure this would have been talked about at a higher level for a long time - how do we integrate them back in? How do they fit in? How is it all going to be seamless? "But the hardest part for those guys is going to be the public perception of us, especially in England. They`re coming back into a World Cup in the UK - they shouldn`t be expecting too many pats on the back over there," he said. "They`re going to cop it everywhere they go. They`ve got to know that, they`ve got to accept that and understand that. "The team needs to as well, because that could also be something that could be unsettling for a team," he added. Despite their bans getting over before the fourth ODI in Dubai, the two weren't named in Australia's final World Cup buildup in the UAE, an upcoming five-match series against Pakistan,

Steve Smith, David Warner return won't be easy, believes Ricky Ponting

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England.

The opener plundered seven sixes and four fours in his 77-ball onslaught for Randwick-Petersham, better known as the Randy Petes, in a one-day game against Penrith that they lost.

He was finally caught during Saturday's match, in front of a few dozen fans, off the bowling of 18-year-old left-armer Henry Railz, the Cricket Australia website reported.

Year-long ball-tampering bans from state and international for Warner and former Australian skipper Steve Smith run out on March 28.

They were both left out of Australia's squad on Friday for the upcoming one-day series against Pakistan despite being eligible for the final two games.

Selector Trevor Hohns said they would be better served easing their way back at the Indian Premier League, which gets under way this month.

Both men were forced to pull out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament in January with elbow injuries and they underwent surgery.&nbsp;

Smith's injury was worse than Warner's and he is yet to return, although he picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground last week.

"We all know they're two of the better players in world cricket," Hohns told reporters on Friday.

"So it's only natural we will take them seriously into consideration when we pick our World Cup squad. The main thing for them and us is to have them playing competitive cricket."

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England.

David Warner smashed a rapid-fire century for his Sydney club side on his return from elbow surgery, reinforcing his destructive abilities ahead of the World Cup in England. The opener plundered seven sixes and four fours in his 77-ball onslaught for Randwick-Petersham, better known as the Randy Petes, in a one-day game against Penrith that they lost. He was finally caught during Saturday's match, in front of a few dozen fans, off the bowling of 18-year-old left-armer Henry Railz, the Cricket Australia website reported. Year-long ball-tampering bans from state and international for Warner and former Australian skipper Steve Smith run out on March 28. They were both left out of Australia's squad on Friday for the upcoming one-day series against Pakistan despite being eligible for the final two games. Selector Trevor Hohns said they would be better served easing their way back at the Indian Premier League, which gets under way this month. Both men were forced to pull out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament in January with elbow injuries and they underwent surgery. Smith's injury was worse than Warner's and he is yet to return, although he picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground last week. "We all know they're two of the better players in world cricket," Hohns told reporters on Friday. "So it's only natural we will take them seriously into consideration when we pick our World Cup squad. The main thing for them and us is to have them playing competitive cricket."

David Warner smacks century on return from elbow surgery

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said.

Smith and Warner were banned by Cricket Australia for 12 months in March last year for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in a test match against South Africa in Cape Town.

Their bans end on March 28 and both players will be reintegrated into the national team after their participation in the Indian Premier League in March and April.

"I think what you are going to see is a pretty quiet David Warner and Steve Smith. They are just going to try and let their bat do the talking and toe the line," Warne told The Telegraph in an interview https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2019/03/09/david-warner-will-best-batsman-2019-world-cup-following-ban.

"I think they will come back better than they were. They're going to come out and destroy attacks and I back David Warner to be the player of the World Cup.

"Warner overstepped the line a lot in his early career. He then changed into a more placid player but was then told by Cricket Australia to be the enforcer and was doing what he was told."

Warne expects the duo to return with renewed vigour, like he did after his 12-month ban for failing a drugs test in 2003. Warne was suspended for taking a banned diuretic and missed Australia's World Cup-winning campaign as a result.

"All I can go on is experience having a year off myself. The next four years were the best I ever had," Warne, who took 708 wickets for Australia in 145 test matches, added.

"I was hungry for the game. My body and mind were fresh and it is amazing how excited you are to play again.

"You get excited just going to the nets again because you have taken it for granted in the past."

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said.

Australian batsmen Steve Smith and David Warner will come back stronger than ever from their 12-month bans and the latter will be the best player at the World Cup this year, former leg spinner Shane Warne has said. Smith and Warner were banned by Cricket Australia for 12 months in March last year for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal in a test match against South Africa in Cape Town. Their bans end on March 28 and both players will be reintegrated into the national team after their participation in the Indian Premier League in March and April. "I think what you are going to see is a pretty quiet David Warner and Steve Smith. They are just going to try and let their bat do the talking and toe the line," Warne told The Telegraph in an interview https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2019/03/09/david-warner-will-best-batsman-2019-world-cup-following-ban. "I think they will come back better than they were. They're going to come out and destroy attacks and I back David Warner to be the player of the World Cup. "Warner overstepped the line a lot in his early career. He then changed into a more placid player but was then told by Cricket Australia to be the enforcer and was doing what he was told." Warne expects the duo to return with renewed vigour, like he did after his 12-month ban for failing a drugs test in 2003. Warne was suspended for taking a banned diuretic and missed Australia's World Cup-winning campaign as a result. "All I can go on is experience having a year off myself. The next four years were the best I ever had," Warne, who took 708 wickets for Australia in 145 test matches, added. "I was hungry for the game. My body and mind were fresh and it is amazing how excited you are to play again. "You get excited just going to the nets again because you have taken it for granted in the past."

Australia's Steve Smith and David Warner will return stronger from bans: Shane Warne

Steve Smith and David Warner's year-long exile has likely left them hungrier than ever and their return can spark Australia to World Cup glory, Test great Shane Warne said Wednesday.

The star pair's ban from state and international cricket for ball-tampering expires later this month and they are expected to be rushed back into the Australian side for the defence of their title at the showpiece tournament in England this year.

Both players have recently undergone elbow surgery and the great unknown is how they will perform back on the world stage, particularly in what is sure to be a hostile atmosphere in England.

But Warne has no doubt they will be as good as ever, benefiting from the break rather than their skills being blunted.

He is talking from experience.

Warne was suspended in 2003 for a year after testing positive to banned diuretic drugs.

Many wrote him off, but the leg-spinning legend quickly bounced back and enjoyed several more years playing at the highest level with the Australian team.

"Sometimes having an enforced lay off -- like I'm used to, I had 12 months off myself -- what that means is you become really fresh," he told Fox Sports.

"You freshen your mind up, you become hungry again and realise how important cricket is to you." Warne said both players would also "have a point to prove" when they eventually pad up again.

"That's why I reckon Australia can win the World Cup," he said, despite the team's recent patchy one-day form.

"They'll walk straight back in, they'll be hungry. They'll be a bit nervous in the first few games but that'll be good for them, they'll be excited and I would expect them to play as good as they always have."&nbsp;

Newly-appointed assistant Australia coach Ricky Ponting echoed similar sentiments recently.

Both players are expected to feature at the upcoming Indian Premier League as they tune-up for the World Cup.

Smith only returned to the nets last week from surgery in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem.

Warner's injury, sustained at the same event, was less serious and he could play his first game since then for his club side Randwick-Petersham this weekend.&nbsp;

Steve Smith and David Warner's year-long exile has likely left them hungrier than ever and their return can spark Australia to World Cup glory, Test great Shane Warne said Wednesday.

Steve Smith and David Warner's year-long exile has likely left them hungrier than ever and their return can spark Australia to World Cup glory, Test great Shane Warne said Wednesday. The star pair's ban from state and international cricket for ball-tampering expires later this month and they are expected to be rushed back into the Australian side for the defence of their title at the showpiece tournament in England this year. Both players have recently undergone elbow surgery and the great unknown is how they will perform back on the world stage, particularly in what is sure to be a hostile atmosphere in England. But Warne has no doubt they will be as good as ever, benefiting from the break rather than their skills being blunted. He is talking from experience. Warne was suspended in 2003 for a year after testing positive to banned diuretic drugs. Many wrote him off, but the leg-spinning legend quickly bounced back and enjoyed several more years playing at the highest level with the Australian team. "Sometimes having an enforced lay off -- like I'm used to, I had 12 months off myself -- what that means is you become really fresh," he told Fox Sports. "You freshen your mind up, you become hungry again and realise how important cricket is to you." Warne said both players would also "have a point to prove" when they eventually pad up again. "That's why I reckon Australia can win the World Cup," he said, despite the team's recent patchy one-day form. "They'll walk straight back in, they'll be hungry. They'll be a bit nervous in the first few games but that'll be good for them, they'll be excited and I would expect them to play as good as they always have." Newly-appointed assistant Australia coach Ricky Ponting echoed similar sentiments recently. Both players are expected to feature at the upcoming Indian Premier League as they tune-up for the World Cup. Smith only returned to the nets last week from surgery in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem. Warner's injury, sustained at the same event, was less serious and he could play his first game since then for his club side Randwick-Petersham this weekend.

Australia can defend World Cup with Steve Smith, David Warner return: Shane Warne

Steve&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League.

Smith&nbsp;went under the knife in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem.

He has been in a brace since, but picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday.

"Great to have my first hit back. The elbow is feeling good,"&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;posted to his 1.4 million Instagram followers with a short video early Friday.

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BubKVz4hB2H/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Great to have my first hit back today. The elbow is feeling good! 😀</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/steve_smith49/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Steve Smith</a> (@steve_smith49) on <time datetime="2019-02-28T11:53:47+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Feb 28, 2019 at 3:53am PST</time>
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Smith&nbsp;and Warner become eligible for international selection again on March 29 after serving year-long bans for their part in attempting to alter the ball during a Test against South Africa.

Warner also returned home from Bangladesh with an injured elbow, though less serious than&nbsp;Smith. He too had surgery and was also at the SCG on Thursday.

He crossed paths there with former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel, who has settled in Sydney with his wife.

Morkel was training at the ground ahead of a stint with English county side Surrey, and told the Cricket Australia website that having&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;and Warner back would be good for the game.

"It's the first time I've seen Davey since South Africa," Morkel said, referring to the Cape Town Test where the tampering scandal unfolded and Warner and&nbsp;Smith&nbsp;were sent home in disgrace.

"Obviously as a cricket supporter I'm rapt for him to get back on the field. It will be great to see him and&nbsp;Steve&nbsp;(Smith) play and it will be great for Australia as well."

Langer told Australian media in India, where the team is playing a Twenty20 and one-day series, that he expected both players to be fit for the IPL, which starts late this month.

"From all accounts they should both be ready for the IPL, which is really positive," he said.

"Dave's probably a little more advanced but my understanding is they'll be ready to go in the not-too-distant future."

Langer added that "I speak to them all the time".

Once their bans expire, both players will be eligible for the final two games of Australia's five-match ODI series against Pakistan in the UAE next month.

The squad for that series has yet to be announced, although the general consensus in Australia is that they will instead play the IPL to prepare themselves for the World Cup in England.

Steve Smith has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League.

Steve Smith has returned to the nets after elbow surgery, with Australia coach Justin Langer expecting the banned former captain and his deputy David Warner to be fit for the Indian Premier League. Smith went under the knife in January after being forced to drop out of the Bangladesh Premier League Twenty20 tournament with a ligament problem. He has been in a brace since, but picked up a bat again and had a session at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Thursday. "Great to have my first hit back. The elbow is feeling good," Smith posted to his 1.4 million Instagram followers with a short video early Friday. Watch the video here: View this post on Instagram Great to have my first hit back today. The elbow is feeling good! 😀 A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on Feb 28, 2019 at 3:53am PST × Smith and Warner become eligible for international selection again on March 29 after serving year-long bans for their part in attempting to alter the ball during a Test against South Africa. Warner also returned home from Bangladesh with an injured elbow, though less serious than Smith. He too had surgery and was also at the SCG on Thursday. He crossed paths there with former South African fast bowler Morne Morkel, who has settled in Sydney with his wife. Morkel was training at the ground ahead of a stint with English county side Surrey, and told the Cricket Australia website that having Smith and Warner back would be good for the game. "It's the first time I've seen Davey since South Africa," Morkel said, referring to the Cape Town Test where the tampering scandal unfolded and Warner and Smith were sent home in disgrace. "Obviously as a cricket supporter I'm rapt for him to get back on the field. It will be great to see him and Steve (Smith) play and it will be great for Australia as well." Langer told Australian media in India, where the team is playing a Twenty20 and one-day series, that he expected both players to be fit for the IPL, which starts late this month. "From all accounts they should both be ready for the IPL, which is really positive," he said. "Dave's probably a little more advanced but my understanding is they'll be ready to go in the not-too-distant future." Langer added that "I speak to them all the time". Once their bans expire, both players will be eligible for the final two games of Australia's five-match ODI series against Pakistan in the UAE next month. The squad for that series has yet to be announced, although the general consensus in Australia is that they will instead play the IPL to prepare themselves for the World Cup in England.

Watch: Steve Smith 'feeling good' as he is back in nets after elbow surgery

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively.

Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit.

"I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI.

He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back.

"No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response.

Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup.

Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced."

But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch.

"Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload."

Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect.

"Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player.

"He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see."

It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions.

"It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form.

They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said.

"I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE.

The injured and banned duo of Steven Smith and David Warner are unlikely to take part in Australia's final two ODIs against Pakistan despite serving out their one-year ball-tampering suspensions during the series to be held in the UAE. After the conclusion of the ODI series against India, the defending World Champions will take on Pakistan in the five-match series with the fourth and fifth ODIs slated on March 29 and 31 respectively. Smith and Warner, both recuperating from elbow surgeries, will find their suspension end on March 29 but there are still serious doubts whether they will play the mega event or not. Smith has just started knocking and will take some more time to get fit. "I don't think David Warner or Steve Smith will play that game (March 29). I am not a hundred percent sure on that but I don't think they will play that last one or two games," Finch said on the eve of the first ODI. He also curtly put it when a reporter asked if he sees himself as a stand-in captain now that both Smith and Warner are set to be back. "No, no, I am the captain, yeah," was his blunt response. Just like Indian team is trying to balance the workload of its players, Australia are also grappling with similar problems with Ashes starting after the World Cup. Asked about pacer Pat Cummins' workload, Finch said: "He bowled a lot throughout the Australian summer, particularly at the back end of the India Test series. "I think having no cricket in April will help guys like Pat to freshen up. Again someone like (Mitchell) Starc, who has played no cricket needs to bowl. The workload of our fast bowlers need to be balanced." But playing 10 ODIs in a month (India and Pakistan series in March) is quite unprecedented in Australian cricket, said Finch. "Playing 10 ODIs in a month is quite an unchartered territory for our fast bowlers. There will be a mix and match managing the workload." Young batsman Ashton Turner is set to make his debut and the skipper is excited about that prospect. "Ashton Turner is a guy who will be making his debut in ODI cricket. We have seen how destructive he can be in domestic cricket, so really excited to see him get a go in international cricket as he is such a smart player. "He is a diverse player who can bat in top couple or down the order. He is game smart and manage situations. He will be an important player, someone I am very interested to see." It is the settled unit that makes India a very strong ODI side not only at home but in all conditions. "It's a good question. Their batting is really strong. They have got in Virat, arguably the best player of all time in ODI cricket. Rohit has been in good form. They have quicks, who move the ball upfront and execute really well at the death. They play well everywhere to be pretty fair," Finch said. "I think when you have a team that has played together for a long time, they understand each other well. Probably a settled group of 14 or 15 very good players are playing for a long time. That goes a long way as to why they have been so successful in particular," he elaborated.

Steve Smith, David Warner unlikely to play last 2 ODIs against Pakistan: Aaron Finch

Former Australia batsman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cameron+Bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day.

The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team.

Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner.

Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey".

"I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC.

"I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well.

"You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that.

"I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave.

"That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey."

Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29.

Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share".

"I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said.

"But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that."

Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August.

"I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said.

"You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Former Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has played down any talk of a rift with David Warner after being accused of throwing his fellow opener "under a bus" in a controversial interview about the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. Bancroft, who was suspended for nine months for his part in the Newlands incident, made a successful return to first class cricket on Saturday, unbeaten on 73 for Western Australia at stumps on the first day. The 26-year-old was roundly criticised for casting Warner as the instigator in an interview during the Boxing Day test against India, while describing himself as an impressionable rookie just wanting to "fit in" to the team. Former Australia captain and TV pundit Ricky Ponting, now employed as a coaching consultant for the one-day international team, said Bancroft had further "damaged (his) brand", while Michael Slater said he had "buried" Warner. Two months on from the interview, Bancroft said he had been in touch with Warner, and that all three banned players had supported each other through their "journey". "I think all of us, including Dave, have been really challenged through this period of time," Bancroft told state radio station ABC. "I know that all three of us have really stuck by each other and looked after each other well. "You can't understand the trauma I felt, it was probably very different trauma to how he (Warner) felt, and I can't possibly understand that. "I guess moving forward there will be great lessons for all of us, including Dave. "That's something we've all shared with each other and something I've certainly shared with Dave when we've communicated throughout this entire journey." Bancroft's ban expired in December, while those of Warner and former captain Steve Smith will end March 29. Bancroft had no regrets about his interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist, saying he felt he had "important learnings to share". "I guess if other people were triggered by that, I guess that's their battle to face," he said. "But if I was able to touch people through some parts of my journey, and to help them I guess break through [in] their lives, that was my sole intention for that." Bancroft has signed to play with English county side Durham as he looks to regain a place in the test side for the Ashes starting in August. "I think I love the game far more authentically now," he said. "You know at times you get caught up in some unhealthy values that playing at the highest level can sometimes present -- at the end of the day it's a game of cricket, and it's nice that that's why I play the game (now)."

Cameron Bancroft defends ball-tampering interview, says no David Warner rift

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner.

On Monday, Cummins's efforts to drag Australia back to respectability were recognised as he claimed a maiden Allan Border Medal as the country's leading cricketer.

Taking 44 wickets across all formats through the voting period from Jan. 9, 2018 - Jan. 7, 2019, Cummins edged out spinner Nathan Lyon, becoming the first bowler to win the award since fellow paceman Mitchell Johnson in 2014.

It was not just Cummins's bags of wickets that soothed fans left aghast by the Newlands ball-tampering scandal.

He showed himself to be more than a handy tail-end slogger as he smashed two half-centuries against South Africa and India, including a defiant 50 in Johannesburg as his team laboured in shame after the Cape Town Test.

Beaming in a white tuxedo at the awards night in Melbourne, the 25-year-old resembled a schoolboy posing for family photos before the senior year dance.

It was a poignant reminder of a player still very young in fast bowling terms, though long marked for greatness.

Cummins made his first splash as an 18-year-old tearaway, claiming a match-winning seven-wicket haul against South Africa on his 2011 Test debut in Johannesburg.

It took more than five years for him to play his second Test, an agonising wait for both the bowler and team staff while he battled a series of lower back stress injuries.

Since kicking off his "second career" against India at Ranchi in 2017, however, Cummins has completed a second full season with no major breakdowns.

"I’ve obviously had quite a few tough years with injury. I always thought Test cricket was the dream but wasn’t sure I’d get up there and forge a consistent career," he said at the awards night.

"Going into last summer and the Ashes, five Tests -- I’d never done anything like it before so, to get through that, I just had a heap of confidence in my body.

"To do it now, two years in a row, it’s been great. I feel like every time I bowl, my rhythm just feels a little bit better."

While Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc battled through a mostly wayward home summer, wearing a disproportionate share of the blame for the Test series loss to India, Cummins's reputation was only enhanced by the defeat.

He took a career-best 6-27 and blasted 63 with the bat in a losing cause in Melbourne, prompting local media to anoint him a future captain of the team.

Promoted to one of Australia's two vice-captains in the series against Sri Lanka, Cummins took 14 wickets in the two Tests to be named man-of-the-series.

He is now second in the ICC world bowlers' rankings behind South Africa's young gun Kagiso Rabada.

After only 20 Tests, Cummins will play the first Ashes fixture at Edgbaston in August in sight of his 100th wicket.

England beware, said former captain Michael Vaughan.

"Cummins is a superstar and will win an Ashes on his own one day," Vaughan tweeted last week.

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner.

In the bleakest of years for Australian cricket, fast bowler Pat Cummins has been a beacon of hope, answering the nation's call for leaders to emerge during the ball-tampering exile of Steve Smith and David Warner. On Monday, Cummins's efforts to drag Australia back to respectability were recognised as he claimed a maiden Allan Border Medal as the country's leading cricketer. Taking 44 wickets across all formats through the voting period from Jan. 9, 2018 - Jan. 7, 2019, Cummins edged out spinner Nathan Lyon, becoming the first bowler to win the award since fellow paceman Mitchell Johnson in 2014. It was not just Cummins's bags of wickets that soothed fans left aghast by the Newlands ball-tampering scandal. He showed himself to be more than a handy tail-end slogger as he smashed two half-centuries against South Africa and India, including a defiant 50 in Johannesburg as his team laboured in shame after the Cape Town Test. Beaming in a white tuxedo at the awards night in Melbourne, the 25-year-old resembled a schoolboy posing for family photos before the senior year dance. It was a poignant reminder of a player still very young in fast bowling terms, though long marked for greatness. Cummins made his first splash as an 18-year-old tearaway, claiming a match-winning seven-wicket haul against South Africa on his 2011 Test debut in Johannesburg. It took more than five years for him to play his second Test, an agonising wait for both the bowler and team staff while he battled a series of lower back stress injuries. Since kicking off his "second career" against India at Ranchi in 2017, however, Cummins has completed a second full season with no major breakdowns. "I’ve obviously had quite a few tough years with injury. I always thought Test cricket was the dream but wasn’t sure I’d get up there and forge a consistent career," he said at the awards night. "Going into last summer and the Ashes, five Tests -- I’d never done anything like it before so, to get through that, I just had a heap of confidence in my body. "To do it now, two years in a row, it’s been great. I feel like every time I bowl, my rhythm just feels a little bit better." While Australia's pace spearhead Mitchell Starc battled through a mostly wayward home summer, wearing a disproportionate share of the blame for the Test series loss to India, Cummins's reputation was only enhanced by the defeat. He took a career-best 6-27 and blasted 63 with the bat in a losing cause in Melbourne, prompting local media to anoint him a future captain of the team. Promoted to one of Australia's two vice-captains in the series against Sri Lanka, Cummins took 14 wickets in the two Tests to be named man-of-the-series. He is now second in the ICC world bowlers' rankings behind South Africa's young gun Kagiso Rabada. After only 20 Tests, Cummins will play the first Ashes fixture at Edgbaston in August in sight of his 100th wicket. England beware, said former captain Michael Vaughan. "Cummins is a superstar and will win an Ashes on his own one day," Vaughan tweeted last week.

Pat Cummins recognised for stepping up in bleak year for Australia

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

The five-match Pakistan series will be held from March 22-31, Pakistan's Cricket Board said.

Smith and Warner, who were banned for their roles in last year's Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, are eligible for selection again on March 29, meaning they can be called up for the fourth ODI against Pakistan.

Australia face Pakistan in the first ODI in Sharjah on March 22, with the second match scheduled for two days later at the same venue.

The teams will then move to Abu Dhabi for the third match on March 27, with the final two games in Dubai on March 29 and 31.

The confirmation of dates for the Pakistan series also gives Australian players with lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts a measure of clarity, as players called up for the series will not be immediately released for the IPL.

The 2019 season of the IPL is scheduled to begin late March, with Australian players selected for the Pakistan series expected to be unavailable until April 2 at the earliest.

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates.

Steve Smith and David Warner could be in line for an immediate return to the Australian team when their bans expire midway through the upcoming one-day international (ODI) series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates. The five-match Pakistan series will be held from March 22-31, Pakistan's Cricket Board said. Smith and Warner, who were banned for their roles in last year's Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, are eligible for selection again on March 29, meaning they can be called up for the fourth ODI against Pakistan. Australia face Pakistan in the first ODI in Sharjah on March 22, with the second match scheduled for two days later at the same venue. The teams will then move to Abu Dhabi for the third match on March 27, with the final two games in Dubai on March 29 and 31. The confirmation of dates for the Pakistan series also gives Australian players with lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts a measure of clarity, as players called up for the series will not be immediately released for the IPL. The 2019 season of the IPL is scheduled to begin late March, with Australian players selected for the Pakistan series expected to be unavailable until April 2 at the earliest.

Steve Smith, David Warner bans to end during Pakistan ODI series

Australia's new assistant coach Ricky Ponting believes the inclusion of Steve Smith and David Warner will help the nation shrug off a woeful run of form in one-day cricket and transform them into genuine contenders at the World Cup in England.

Smith and Warner's ball-tampering bans expire on March 29 and though the pair are struggling with elbow injuries, former captain Ponting said the presence of Australia's two top batsmen in England would boost their hopes of back-to-back titles.

"India and England are probably the two standout teams right now but if you add Warner and Smith back into that line-up, I think that team looks as strong as any," Ponting told reporters in Melbourne on Sunday.

"With the inclusion of two of the best one-day players in the world and a lot of experience, all of a sudden the team starts looking a lot better.

"I am not just saying that because I am one of the coaches, I actually said it when I wasn’t around the group.

"Conditions in England will suit our style of play ... I think Australia will be the one of the main contenders for sure."

Ponting has replaced Graeme Hick as batting coach on a short-term appointment for the World Cup which starts at the end of May.

Few in Australia would argue Aaron Finch's side could have a better mentor than the 44-year-old Ponting, who played in three of the nation's five World Cup triumphs and led the team to back-to-back titles in 2003 and 2007.

Australia have since slumped to sixth in the world rankings, losing their last six ODI series in succession in a miserable two-year period since defeating Pakistan at home in Jan. 2017.

More pain might be in store for Finch's squad in India this month where they will take on the world number two without first-choice bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood.

Ponting, who joined local broadcaster Channel 7 as a cricket analyst last year, will not travel with the team in India for the five-match ODI series starting March 2, or for the following warmup series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates due to other commitments.

The UAE tour's dates are yet to be fixed but Smith and Warner's suspensions will rule them out for at least part of the series, leaving them to try to find form in the Indian Premier League which starts on March 23.

Ponting shrugged off Australia's injury worries and the idea of there being risk in rushing Smith and Warner into the team.

"We went to World Cups with Michael Bevan injured, Darren Lehmann suspended, Warney (Shane Warne) went home and Jason Gillespie went home," Ponting said.

"World Cups very rarely run exactly to plan.

"All the planning right now is we will have all those guys in the squad and if we do, it looks as good as any squad on paper."

Australia's new assistant coach Ricky Ponting believes the inclusion of Steve Smith and David Warner will help the nation shrug off a woeful run of form in one-day cricket and transform them into genuine contenders at the World Cup in England.

Australia's new assistant coach Ricky Ponting believes the inclusion of Steve Smith and David Warner will help the nation shrug off a woeful run of form in one-day cricket and transform them into genuine contenders at the World Cup in England. Smith and Warner's ball-tampering bans expire on March 29 and though the pair are struggling with elbow injuries, former captain Ponting said the presence of Australia's two top batsmen in England would boost their hopes of back-to-back titles. "India and England are probably the two standout teams right now but if you add Warner and Smith back into that line-up, I think that team looks as strong as any," Ponting told reporters in Melbourne on Sunday. "With the inclusion of two of the best one-day players in the world and a lot of experience, all of a sudden the team starts looking a lot better. "I am not just saying that because I am one of the coaches, I actually said it when I wasn’t around the group. "Conditions in England will suit our style of play ... I think Australia will be the one of the main contenders for sure." Ponting has replaced Graeme Hick as batting coach on a short-term appointment for the World Cup which starts at the end of May. Few in Australia would argue Aaron Finch's side could have a better mentor than the 44-year-old Ponting, who played in three of the nation's five World Cup triumphs and led the team to back-to-back titles in 2003 and 2007. Australia have since slumped to sixth in the world rankings, losing their last six ODI series in succession in a miserable two-year period since defeating Pakistan at home in Jan. 2017. More pain might be in store for Finch's squad in India this month where they will take on the world number two without first-choice bowlers Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Ponting, who joined local broadcaster Channel 7 as a cricket analyst last year, will not travel with the team in India for the five-match ODI series starting March 2, or for the following warmup series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates due to other commitments. The UAE tour's dates are yet to be fixed but Smith and Warner's suspensions will rule them out for at least part of the series, leaving them to try to find form in the Indian Premier League which starts on March 23. Ponting shrugged off Australia's injury worries and the idea of there being risk in rushing Smith and Warner into the team. "We went to World Cups with Michael Bevan injured, Darren Lehmann suspended, Warney (Shane Warne) went home and Jason Gillespie went home," Ponting said. "World Cups very rarely run exactly to plan. "All the planning right now is we will have all those guys in the squad and if we do, it looks as good as any squad on paper."

Australia can win at World Cup with Steve Smith, David Warner: Ricky Ponting

Steve Smith and David Warner will not be rushed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-and-david-warner-to-play-huge-part-in-ashes-series-tim-paine-195067">back into the Australia side as</a> soon as their bans expire next month but coach Justin Langer thinks it would be "crazy" not to include them in the World Cup squad.

The former test captain and vice-captain, Australia's best two batsmen, will become eligible for state and international cricket on March 29 after serving one-year bans for their part in the Newlands ball-tampering scandal.

The prospective return of both has been complicated by elbow injuries with Smith's more serious problem requiring major surgery and likely to sideline him right up to the expiration of his ban.

Coach Langer, who will prepare sides for both the World Cup defence and Ashes tour over the next few months, said the timing of their international returns would depend both on the injuries and also on how much cricket they were able to play.

"They're going to need to get some cricket before coming back into the squad. It's all part of the management. We'll have to wait and see," he said.

"We know it's been a tough time for them, it's been a tough time for Australian cricket, but we know the ... integration has been going for the last nine or ten months ... it's getting closer, isn't it? And that'll be a continued process."

"It's about how much cricket they get to play between now and then. They'll find opportunities. We'll find opportunities."

"We're talking about two great players, we're not talking about two really good players," he added. "Two great players who on paper we'd be crazy not to have them in the team."

With both retained by their franchises for this year's Indian Premier League beginning on March 23 and Australia playing an ODI series against Pakistan in March-April, there will be plenty of opportunities for them to show their form and fitness.

Australia must select their squad for the World Cup on April 23 and the Cricinfo website reported that Smith might even be left out to allow him to play longer-form cricket and ensure he is good to go for the Ashes.

The Australian newspaper said the pair were unlikely to be involved in the series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates but would play in the IPL as preparation for the World Cup.

Steve Smith and David Warner will not be rushed back into the Australia side as soon as their bans expire next month but coach Justin Langer thinks it would be "crazy" not to include them in the World Cup squad.

Steve Smith and David Warner will not be rushed back into the Australia side as soon as their bans expire next month but coach Justin Langer thinks it would be "crazy" not to include them in the World Cup squad. The former test captain and vice-captain, Australia's best two batsmen, will become eligible for state and international cricket on March 29 after serving one-year bans for their part in the Newlands ball-tampering scandal. The prospective return of both has been complicated by elbow injuries with Smith's more serious problem requiring major surgery and likely to sideline him right up to the expiration of his ban. Coach Langer, who will prepare sides for both the World Cup defence and Ashes tour over the next few months, said the timing of their international returns would depend both on the injuries and also on how much cricket they were able to play. "They're going to need to get some cricket before coming back into the squad. It's all part of the management. We'll have to wait and see," he said. "We know it's been a tough time for them, it's been a tough time for Australian cricket, but we know the ... integration has been going for the last nine or ten months ... it's getting closer, isn't it? And that'll be a continued process." "It's about how much cricket they get to play between now and then. They'll find opportunities. We'll find opportunities." "We're talking about two great players, we're not talking about two really good players," he added. "Two great players who on paper we'd be crazy not to have them in the team." With both retained by their franchises for this year's Indian Premier League beginning on March 23 and Australia playing an ODI series against Pakistan in March-April, there will be plenty of opportunities for them to show their form and fitness. Australia must select their squad for the World Cup on April 23 and the Cricinfo website reported that Smith might even be left out to allow him to play longer-form cricket and ensure he is good to go for the Ashes. The Australian newspaper said the pair were unlikely to be involved in the series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates but would play in the IPL as preparation for the World Cup.

Crazy not to include Steve Smith, David Warner, says Langer with eye on World Cup

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place."&nbsp;

After a torrid 12 months marred by the ball-tampering row and poor form without their top stars, Australia ended their summer on a high by emphatically winning two Tests against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

They claimed the first in Brisbane by an innings and 40 runs and the second in Canberra by 366 runs, following a tough home series defeat to top-ranked India.&nbsp;

Smith and Warner's bans for their role in trying to alter the ball in South Africa expire late next month and they are widely expected to quickly return to the national set-up.&nbsp;

"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.&nbsp;

"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.&nbsp;

"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."&nbsp;

Without the experienced pair, Australia struggled. But at least they broke a century drought stretching back to October in Canberra, with Joe Burns, Travis Head, Kurtis Patterson and Usman Khawaja all cashing in.&nbsp;

Their knocks put them in prime position for the Ashes against an England side reeling from an embarrassing capitulation in the West Indies.&nbsp;

Following a 381-run defeat by the hosts in the first Test in Barbados last month, England suffered a 10-wicket thrashing in Antigua on Saturday to lose the three-match series 2-0. 
 
Won back respect 

With the imminent return of Warner and Smith, there are now question marks over Marcus Harris and number four Marnus Labuschagne. 
Harris struggled in Canberra on a batting-friendly wicket as fellow opener Burns hit 180, while Labuschagne managed just six and four in his two innings.&nbsp;

Khawaja's snapping of a run drought is widely seen as being enough for him to remain at first drop, with Head's 161 and 59 not out sealing his place at number five.&nbsp;

Paine said he has a "fair idea" of what the Ashes team might look like.&nbsp;

"What we have seen over this summer is we are starting to build a squad with plenty of depth. There's probably anywhere between 16 and 25 players we think are now in the mix, which is a really good place to be," he added.&nbsp;

For Paine, heading to England, and as skipper, is something that has been on his mind for months.&nbsp;

"I've been dreaming about it actually," he said.&nbsp;

"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."&nbsp;

The ball-tampering scandal, which led to year-long bans for Smith and Warner and nine months in exile for Cameron Bancroft, led to Australia changing its cricketing culture and toning down its aggressive sledging.

Paine said he was "really proud of the way we have gone about it".&nbsp;

"We spoke at the start of the summer that our main priority was to win back the respect of our Australian public and cricket fans. Sitting here now, I think we've gone a long way to doing that," he said.

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place.

Skipper Tim Paine Monday said he expects the banned Steve Smith and David Warner to play "a huge" role in this year's Ashes series against England, with Australia now in "a really good place." After a torrid 12 months marred by the ball-tampering row and poor form without their top stars, Australia ended their summer on a high by emphatically winning two Tests against Sri Lanka. They claimed the first in Brisbane by an innings and 40 runs and the second in Canberra by 366 runs, following a tough home series defeat to top-ranked India. Smith and Warner's bans for their role in trying to alter the ball in South Africa expire late next month and they are widely expected to quickly return to the national set-up. "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. "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." Without the experienced pair, Australia struggled. But at least they broke a century drought stretching back to October in Canberra, with Joe Burns, Travis Head, Kurtis Patterson and Usman Khawaja all cashing in. Their knocks put them in prime position for the Ashes against an England side reeling from an embarrassing capitulation in the West Indies. Following a 381-run defeat by the hosts in the first Test in Barbados last month, England suffered a 10-wicket thrashing in Antigua on Saturday to lose the three-match series 2-0. Won back respect With the imminent return of Warner and Smith, there are now question marks over Marcus Harris and number four Marnus Labuschagne. Harris struggled in Canberra on a batting-friendly wicket as fellow opener Burns hit 180, while Labuschagne managed just six and four in his two innings. Khawaja's snapping of a run drought is widely seen as being enough for him to remain at first drop, with Head's 161 and 59 not out sealing his place at number five. Paine said he has a "fair idea" of what the Ashes team might look like. "What we have seen over this summer is we are starting to build a squad with plenty of depth. There's probably anywhere between 16 and 25 players we think are now in the mix, which is a really good place to be," he added. For Paine, heading to England, and as skipper, is something that has been on his mind for months. "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." The ball-tampering scandal, which led to year-long bans for Smith and Warner and nine months in exile for Cameron Bancroft, led to Australia changing its cricketing culture and toning down its aggressive sledging. Paine said he was "really proud of the way we have gone about it". "We spoke at the start of the summer that our main priority was to win back the respect of our Australian public and cricket fans. Sitting here now, I think we've gone a long way to doing that," he said.

Steve Smith and David Warner to play 'huge' part in Ashes series: Tim Paine

Australian opener David Warner, who is working towards a return to international cricket after serving a ball-tampering ban, has picked up an elbow injury during his ongoing stint with the Bangladesh Premier League.&nbsp;

Warner will leave the tournament early to have his injury assessed, joining his former skipper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-steve-smith-to-have-surgery-on-elbow-injury-189813">Steve Smith in the injured list</a>.

"While the extent of the injury remains unknown, Warner will continue to play for the Sylhet Sixers before he departs, meaning he will feature in matches on the 18th and 19th," Cricket Australia's official website 'cricket.Com.Au' said in its report.

Smith, who is also serving a 12-month ban for his role in the infamous ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, has already undergone a surgery on his right elbow after returning home and is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks.&nbsp;

Warner will be returning to Australia next Monday to have his injury assessed.&nbsp;

Both Smith and Warner's 12-month bans end on March 28 and the duo was expected to feature in Australia's last two matches of the five ODIs against Pakistan in the UAE.

Warner looked close to his best in the BPL, scoring two half-centuries in five innings, including a whirlwind unbeaten 61 on Wednesday night.

Australian opener David Warner, who is working towards a return to international cricket after serving a ball-tampering ban, has picked up an elbow injury during his ongoing stint with the Bangladesh Premier League.

Australian opener David Warner, who is working towards a return to international cricket after serving a ball-tampering ban, has picked up an elbow injury during his ongoing stint with the Bangladesh Premier League. Warner will leave the tournament early to have his injury assessed, joining his former skipper Steve Smith in the injured list. "While the extent of the injury remains unknown, Warner will continue to play for the Sylhet Sixers before he departs, meaning he will feature in matches on the 18th and 19th," Cricket Australia's official website 'cricket.Com.Au' said in its report. Smith, who is also serving a 12-month ban for his role in the infamous ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year, has already undergone a surgery on his right elbow after returning home and is expected to be out of action for at least six weeks. Warner will be returning to Australia next Monday to have his injury assessed. Both Smith and Warner's 12-month bans end on March 28 and the duo was expected to feature in Australia's last two matches of the five ODIs against Pakistan in the UAE. Warner looked close to his best in the BPL, scoring two half-centuries in five innings, including a whirlwind unbeaten 61 on Wednesday night.

David Warner to return home midway from BPL after elbow injury

Australia are&nbsp;'kidding themselves' if they think the return of Steve Smith and David Warner is the answer to all their problems and a serious overhaul is needed if they are to win the Ashes this year, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said.

Australia lost their first test series at home to India on Monday, a draw in Sydney giving Virat Kohli's side a 2-1 victory, and the hosts failed to muster a single century over the four matches.

Former captain Smith and his vice-captain Warner are serving 12-month bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are not available for selection until the end of March.

While Australia have undoubtedly struggled in the pair's absence, Vaughan said the team's problems ran much deeper and the Ashes series in England would highlight their deficiencies unless big changes were made.

"I cannot see Australia beating England this summer unless they assess themselves brutally," Vaughan wrote in his column for London's Telegraph newspaper.

"Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball.

"Every facet of their test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back."

Australia have passed 300 runs just three times in 14 innings since Warner and Smith were banned last March, with a highest score of 362 for eight, and Vaughan said the team were not producing enough runs to make them competitive.

"On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted," Vaughan said of their performances during the India series.

"A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. Australia are unable to play long innings.

"They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat."

Australia's trio of pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins were also criticised by Vaughan, who said they did not offer enough variety or consistency to exploit pitch conditions in England.

The Australians had just one lbw dismissal in the entire India series, he said, indicating there were not enough deliveries directed at the stumps.

"The bowling is not as good as they think," wrote Vaughan. "To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently.

"It is not often that quick bowlers come to England and blast batsmen out. It may happen in one test but not over the course of a five-match series.

"You need consistent line and length, and skilful manipulation of the conditions.

"At the moment, I do not see Australia having those attributes."

Australia are 'kidding themselves' if they think the return of Steve Smith and David Warner is the answer to all their problems and a serious overhaul is needed if they are to win the Ashes this year, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said.

Australia are 'kidding themselves' if they think the return of Steve Smith and David Warner is the answer to all their problems and a serious overhaul is needed if they are to win the Ashes this year, former England captain Michael Vaughan has said. Australia lost their first test series at home to India on Monday, a draw in Sydney giving Virat Kohli's side a 2-1 victory, and the hosts failed to muster a single century over the four matches. Former captain Smith and his vice-captain Warner are serving 12-month bans for their role in a ball-tampering scandal in South Africa last year and are not available for selection until the end of March. While Australia have undoubtedly struggled in the pair's absence, Vaughan said the team's problems ran much deeper and the Ashes series in England would highlight their deficiencies unless big changes were made. "I cannot see Australia beating England this summer unless they assess themselves brutally," Vaughan wrote in his column for London's Telegraph newspaper. "Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball. "Every facet of their test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back." Australia have passed 300 runs just three times in 14 innings since Warner and Smith were banned last March, with a highest score of 362 for eight, and Vaughan said the team were not producing enough runs to make them competitive. "On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted," Vaughan said of their performances during the India series. "A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. Australia are unable to play long innings. "They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat." Australia's trio of pace bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins were also criticised by Vaughan, who said they did not offer enough variety or consistency to exploit pitch conditions in England. The Australians had just one lbw dismissal in the entire India series, he said, indicating there were not enough deliveries directed at the stumps. "The bowling is not as good as they think," wrote Vaughan. "To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently. "It is not often that quick bowlers come to England and blast batsmen out. It may happen in one test but not over the course of a five-match series. "You need consistent line and length, and skilful manipulation of the conditions. "At the moment, I do not see Australia having those attributes."

Smith, Warner return no cure-all for Australia, says former captain Vaughan

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India</a>, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back".&nbsp;

In his column for 'The Daily Telegraph' following India's maiden Test series triumph Down Under, Vaughan wrote that Australia's issues run far deeper than the absence of suspended Smith and Warner.&nbsp;

"If you think Australia's problems will be solved the moment Steve Smith and David Warner are available for selection again then you are wrong... Batting, bowling, selection and tactics were poor against India, and Australia have to admit they were just not good enough," wrote Vaughan.&nbsp;

"Clearly, if you take the two best players out of any team they will struggle. But losing Smith and Warner is an easy excuse to hide behind.&nbsp;

India were beaten 4-1 in English conditions last summer, although the matches were closer than the final score suggests, but would have beaten Australia 3-1 had it not rained in Sydney for the last two days."&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/not-indias-fault-that-steve-smith-and-david-warner-were-not-picked-sunil-gavaskar-slams-critics-188822">Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics</a>

Considering the current scenario, Vaughan can't see Australia beating England in the away Ashes to be held after the 2019 World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"...Unless they assess themselves brutally. Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball. Every facet of their Test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted. A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat."&nbsp;

Improvement is also needed in the bowling department, reckoned Vaughan.&nbsp;

"The bowling is not as good as they think. They are very good when conditions are in their favour or well ahead in the game. But there is room for them to become a much more skilful and consistent bowling attack.&nbsp;

"For the Ashes this summer, Australia have to look at breaking up Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. They need a more skilful bowler, such as a Peter Siddle or Trent Copeland. They need someone who can match England's consistency and skill with the Duke ball and bowl the fuller length," he said.&nbsp;

Vaughan said the support staff must be blamed for the below-par bowling performance.&nbsp;

"A ridiculously low percentage of balls bowled by Australia against India were going on to hit the stumps. They took only one wicket lbw in the whole series.&nbsp;

"The bowlers and the coaching staff have to take the blame for that and ask how they can improve. To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently," he added.&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back".

Former England captain Michael Vaughan feels Australia, beaten for the first time in a home Test series against India, are "kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Steve Smith and David Warner come back". In his column for 'The Daily Telegraph' following India's maiden Test series triumph Down Under, Vaughan wrote that Australia's issues run far deeper than the absence of suspended Smith and Warner. "If you think Australia's problems will be solved the moment Steve Smith and David Warner are available for selection again then you are wrong... Batting, bowling, selection and tactics were poor against India, and Australia have to admit they were just not good enough," wrote Vaughan. "Clearly, if you take the two best players out of any team they will struggle. But losing Smith and Warner is an easy excuse to hide behind. India were beaten 4-1 in English conditions last summer, although the matches were closer than the final score suggests, but would have beaten Australia 3-1 had it not rained in Sydney for the last two days." Also Read: Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics Considering the current scenario, Vaughan can't see Australia beating England in the away Ashes to be held after the 2019 World Cup. "...Unless they assess themselves brutally. Batting techniques have to be better and they need to be more consistent with the ball. Every facet of their Test team has to improve. They are kidding themselves if they think everything will be rosy when Smith and Warner come back. "On flat, good batting pitches, Australia really struggled as it is on those tracks that weaknesses are highlighted. A batting unit's defences are tested because it is necessary to bat for long periods. They look like a team who can score 250-300, and that is good enough on sporting pitches, but not when it is flat." Improvement is also needed in the bowling department, reckoned Vaughan. "The bowling is not as good as they think. They are very good when conditions are in their favour or well ahead in the game. But there is room for them to become a much more skilful and consistent bowling attack. "For the Ashes this summer, Australia have to look at breaking up Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. They need a more skilful bowler, such as a Peter Siddle or Trent Copeland. They need someone who can match England's consistency and skill with the Duke ball and bowl the fuller length," he said. Vaughan said the support staff must be blamed for the below-par bowling performance. "A ridiculously low percentage of balls bowled by Australia against India were going on to hit the stumps. They took only one wicket lbw in the whole series. "The bowlers and the coaching staff have to take the blame for that and ask how they can improve. To beat England in England, they have to bowl more intelligently," he added.

Aussies kidding themselves if they think all will be rosy when Steve Smith, David Warner return: Michael Vaughan

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;

After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. &nbsp;

He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them."

He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-unusual-victory-dance-after-historic-test-win-against-australia-that-cheteshwar-pujara-cant-do-188811">India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do</a>

Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team.&nbsp;

It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion.&nbsp;

"It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/nVosuIEwlt">pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1082155848628023296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide.&nbsp;

"We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters.&nbsp;

"We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."&nbsp;

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them." He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines." Watch: India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team. It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion. "It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'. Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide. "We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters. "We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.&nbsp;

Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner.&nbsp;

Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball.&nbsp;

"I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side.&nbsp;

"Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour."

Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past.

"The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period.&nbsp;

"Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past."

The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews.&nbsp;

"I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven.&nbsp;

"I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it."&nbsp;

Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again.&nbsp;

"Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before."&nbsp;

"I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday.

David Warner's isolation by Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft in their recent interviews will not impact the opening batsman's re-integration, Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts promised Thursday. Both Smith and Bancroft held Warner responsible for the ball tampering scandal, which led to imposition of bans on all three cricketers. While both Smith and Bancroft accepted their own responsibility in committing the mistake during the Test against South Africa at Centurion in March, they sought to put more blame on Warner. Smith was quoted as saying, "I don't want to know about it" when Warner indicated the need to do something with the ball and Bancroft said he was encouraged by Warner to tamper with the ball. "I don't know that it does," Roberts told SEN Radio, according to Cricinfo, when asked whether comments made by Smith and Bancroft and Smith would impact his chances of returning to the national side. "Our focus is to work with Dave, who I spoke to about three days ago on his integration plan. I think what is really important is that Dave, Steve and Cameron will really need sign to up to the players' mantra that everything they do is really seeking to make Australians proud. Our non-negotiable expectation is that we compete with honour." Roberts said they are now looking forward instead of dwelling on past. "The Cape Town incident happened nine months ago, the investigation was conducted, the sanctions were handed down, and our focus now is working towards the reintegration of the players. Our focus is on that reintegration and moving forward as to how we can support all of the players through that period. "Our focus is on how we proactively look forward and work with the players, rather than be concerned with what has happened in the past." The timing of Smith and Bancroft's interviews during the Boxing Day Test and the content aired has perhaps not gone well with CA and even former captain Ricky Ponting was critical of the interviews. "I just don't think he (Bancroft) had to say some of the things he had to say to be honest," Ponting said on Seven. "I am not too sure how happy the players will be about it, or how happy Cricket Australia will be about it. I was very disappointed about the timing of it." Ponting said Smith may have hurt his brand by it but is still capable of leading the side again. "Even the way he presented himself in that interview, he's trying to rebuild his brand and that sort of thing, and I think some of the things he's had to say have actually done more damage to his brand than what had happened before." "I think he (Smith) will come back into the captaincy. At the end of the day he has owned up to what his leadership failures are. Hopefully, I am like most, I am willing to forgive after he serves his penalty. I think he will come back a much better person and a much better leader after what's happened."

David Warner's integration very much on: CA Chief Executive Roberts

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped.&nbsp;

Smith and Cameron Bancroft recently opened up about the infamous <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">ball tampering incident</a> that shook world cricket in March. The duo made it clear in their recent interviews that Warner was the instigator of the ill-fated plan in Cape Town.&nbsp;

Some ex-players including former captain Ricky Ponting interpreted the comments as effectively making Warner the fall guy with Michael Slater saying that it would be difficult for the explosive left-hander to return to the team.&nbsp;

"When Davey and Steve are ready to be allowed to come back and play cricket for Australia and their states I think from my point of view, they'll be welcomed back with open arms," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au.&nbsp;

Finch added that both Smith and Warner would earn their Australian recalls when they return in three months.&nbsp;

"Whatever's happened, has happened. The punishment has been dealt. They've been working really hard off the field to meet every criteria, and go above and beyond everything that has been asked of them, to come back and play international cricket again," he said.&nbsp;

Smith and former vice-captain Warner were handed year-long international bans for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and is due to make a return on Saturday.&nbsp;

Asked if the Australian players have discussed the issue, Finch said: "There hasn't been any chat about it in the changeroom at all to be fair."&nbsp;

Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts had also stated that they had no plans of dumping Warner despite the recent unflattering statements by his two teammates

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped.

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped. Smith and Cameron Bancroft recently opened up about the infamous ball tampering incident that shook world cricket in March. The duo made it clear in their recent interviews that Warner was the instigator of the ill-fated plan in Cape Town. Some ex-players including former captain Ricky Ponting interpreted the comments as effectively making Warner the fall guy with Michael Slater saying that it would be difficult for the explosive left-hander to return to the team. "When Davey and Steve are ready to be allowed to come back and play cricket for Australia and their states I think from my point of view, they'll be welcomed back with open arms," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au. Finch added that both Smith and Warner would earn their Australian recalls when they return in three months. "Whatever's happened, has happened. The punishment has been dealt. They've been working really hard off the field to meet every criteria, and go above and beyond everything that has been asked of them, to come back and play international cricket again," he said. Smith and former vice-captain Warner were handed year-long international bans for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and is due to make a return on Saturday. Asked if the Australian players have discussed the issue, Finch said: "There hasn't been any chat about it in the changeroom at all to be fair." Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts had also stated that they had no plans of dumping Warner despite the recent unflattering statements by his two teammates

Steve Smith and David Warner will be welcomed back with open arms, says Aaron Finch

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team.

Speaking to Cricket Australia's official website, 'cricket.Com.Au' on Thursday, Ponting said he is quite stunned by the statements.

In interviews given to 'Fox Sports', Bancroft has said that he was encouraged by David Warner, who is also serving a ban, to tamper the ball, while Smith has claimed that Cricket Australia's now ousted top officials encouraged a 'win at all cost' culture by statements like "we don't pay you to play, we pay you to win".

"Now that those stories are out there, it's going to be interesting to see what the reaction is tomorrow in newspapers and news channels. There's enough in those stories to raise a few eyebrows," Ponting was quoted as saying.

At the same time, Ponting said he does not believe the fresh controversy on the matter will have an impact on the national team.

"I think the guys that are not banned have had long enough to move on from that sort of stuff," he said.

"I'm pretty sure that Painey (current captain Tim Paine) and some of the other guys, they have to leave that behind and move on and worry about what's happening in the middle of the MCG.

"Because right now, the series is at absolute fever pitch&nbsp;so the less distractions the better," he added referring to the ongoing four-Test series against India which is locked 1-1.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team. Speaking to Cricket Australia's official website, 'cricket.Com.Au' on Thursday, Ponting said he is quite stunned by the statements. In interviews given to 'Fox Sports', Bancroft has said that he was encouraged by David Warner, who is also serving a ban, to tamper the ball, while Smith has claimed that Cricket Australia's now ousted top officials encouraged a 'win at all cost' culture by statements like "we don't pay you to play, we pay you to win". "Now that those stories are out there, it's going to be interesting to see what the reaction is tomorrow in newspapers and news channels. There's enough in those stories to raise a few eyebrows," Ponting was quoted as saying. At the same time, Ponting said he does not believe the fresh controversy on the matter will have an impact on the national team. "I think the guys that are not banned have had long enough to move on from that sort of stuff," he said. "I'm pretty sure that Painey (current captain Tim Paine) and some of the other guys, they have to leave that behind and move on and worry about what's happening in the middle of the MCG. "Because right now, the series is at absolute fever pitch so the less distractions the better," he added referring to the ongoing four-Test series against India which is locked 1-1.

Bancroft, Smith comments on ball-tampering scandal will raise eyebrows: Ponting

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/second-guatemalan-migrant-child-dies-in-us-custody-186481">Second migrant child dies in US custody this month</a>

An eight-year-old migrant from Guatemala died in government custody on Tuesday, US Customs and Border Protection said, the second child fatality in US detention this month.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-asked-me-to-tamper-with-ball-admits-banned-aussie-player-bancroft-186502">David Warner asked me to tamper with </a><a class="gr-progress" href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-asked-me-to-tamper-with-ball-admits-banned-aussie-player-bancroft-186502">ball</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-asked-me-to-tamper-with-ball-admits-banned-aussie-player-bancroft-186502">, says Cameron Bancroft</a>

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in".

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/islamic-state-claims-attack-on-libya-foreign-ministry-that-killed-three-186493">Islamic State claims attack on Libya foreign ministry that killed three</a>

Suicide attackers stormed the Libyan foreign ministry in the capital Tripoli on Tuesday, killing at least three people including a senior civil servant in an attack claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-mqm-p-leader-ali-raza-abidi-assassinated-186489">Former Pakistani lawmaker Ali Raza Abidi assassinated in Karachi</a>

Former Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and former Member of Pakistan National Assembly (MNA) Ali Raza Abidi was shot dead in Karachi on Tuesday, stated Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Javed Alam Odho.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/3rd-test-debutant-mayanks-fifty-drives-india-ahead-are-831-after-37-overs-186498">IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal scores 50 on debut</a>

Debutant Mayank Agarwal displayed some brilliant cricketing skills to reach his half-century and give India a steady start on the first day of the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

Second migrant child dies in US custody this month An eight-year-old migrant from Guatemala died in government custody on Tuesday, US Customs and Border Protection said, the second child fatality in US detention this month.

Second migrant child dies in US custody this month An eight-year-old migrant from Guatemala died in government custody on Tuesday, US Customs and Border Protection said, the second child fatality in US detention this month. David Warner asked me to tamper with ball, says Cameron Bancroft Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in". Islamic State claims attack on Libya foreign ministry that killed three Suicide attackers stormed the Libyan foreign ministry in the capital Tripoli on Tuesday, killing at least three people including a senior civil servant in an attack claimed by the Islamic State jihadist group. Former Pakistani lawmaker Ali Raza Abidi assassinated in Karachi Former Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) leader and former Member of Pakistan National Assembly (MNA) Ali Raza Abidi was shot dead in Karachi on Tuesday, stated Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South Javed Alam Odho. IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: Mayank Agarwal scores 50 on debut Debutant Mayank Agarwal displayed some brilliant cricketing skills to reach his half-century and give India a steady start on the first day of the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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