Justin Langer hints at potential return of Steve Smith and David Warner in Pakistan series

12/24/2018

Justin Langer has stated that there is "potential" for Steve Smith and David Warner to make an international return in the ODI series against Pakistan, just days after their suspensions are served. The Australian coach has also praised Smith by calling him "Australia's very own Virat Kohli".

After Australian Cricketers' Association claimed that the banned trio of Smith, Warner, and Cameron Bancroft had already served enough bans, and should be allowed to play the India series, the CA directors had discussed the options available to them before eventually dismissing the submission. That said, Bancroft, who was given a nine-month ban, will be free to play again on 29 December, while the one-year bans handed to Smith and Warner will expire on 29 March 2019.

While a five-match ODI series between Australia and Pakistan was mooted for mid-March next year, new reports suggested that Pakistan had proposed hosting Australia from March 31 to April 13, which will allow Smith and Warner to take part in the series. The series will allow Langer to reintegrate the duo to the set-up, keeping the World Cup in sight.

"There's potential for that, but that's part of the process (to work through to reintegrate the banned players)," Langer told reporters in Melbourne, reported Cricket.com.au.

"There's lots of conversations going on about what's best for our bowlers, for the guys returning, and we'll work through that. We'll get the best outcome for Australian cricket and for them personally, but there's been no decisions made at this stage."

Smith had a press conference last week, where he revealed that he is in a much better headspace than before and eyeing to return to top-level cricket through Indian Premier League, where he will be a part of Rajasthan Royals team. Langer is confident that Smith will return stronger than ever before and he even likened him to Virat Kohli.

"I've spoken to him. That's much more important to me than what I read in the press – that's with absolute respect – because I hear it straight from the horse's mouth," Langer said.

"I think he's in a very determined place. Obviously, it's been a really tough time for him. But we can't wait to see – can't wait to have him back. [I am] really looking forward to this – he's Virat Kohli of the Australian cricket team. That's the truth of it. He's an outstanding player, he's been our captain. He's a fantastic young bloke.

"I know how determined he is to get back and play for Australia. That makes me feel warm and fuzzy, knowing Steve Smith is determined."