Australia bowlers threatened not to play in the final Test if David Warner wasn't banned, reveals CA chief

It’s been a year since Cricket Australia (CA) had banned the three cricketers in consequence of the sandpaper gate that took place during Australia’s tour of South Africa. In the latest revelation, it is known that Australia’s bowlers had threatened not to play alongside David Warner in the final Test in South Africa. 

CA chief Kevin Roberts has now dismissed concerns that are circling the return of two of the team’s ace players- Steve Smith and David Warner. The Australian team had to grow leaving the two former leaders behind during their exile. In that interim Aaron Finch led the Aussie side in the limited-overs format. At first, the leadership had affected Finch’s form as a batsman.

But as the World Cup is coming closer into being, Finch’s Australian brigade is stronger than ever. With two back to back away series triumphs, against India and Pakistan, Australia have reestablished them as a force in ODI Cricket right ahead of the IC’s big event, that commences on May 30. No just that, Finch’s instrumental role in the success of Australia’s batting mix is undeniable.

Warner and Smith, on Thursday, completed the 12-month bans that were imposed by CA and are now free to continue their international careers. But as the two cricketers are playing in the IPL haven’t still returned to playing international cricket for Australia. That only leaves us thinking about their chances in the World Cup 2019. 

CA impressed by the banned trio’s behaviour

Multiple sources have confirmed that star bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon had threatened to withdraw from the fourth Test of last year’s infamous series in South Africa if the ‘architect’ of the ball-tampering episode, Warner was allowed to play. “What we’re focused on is doing everything we can to support Dave, Steve, Cameron and all the other players in support staff with this reintegration to build harmony rather than to disrupt the harmony that is building,” CA chief Kevin Roberts was quoted saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.

Roberts, who is confident that Smith and Warner will not have a negative impact on the team’s harmony when they return, said that he had been “really impressed” by the banned trio’s behaviour while serving their suspensions. Warner and Smith have been widely praised by their local clubs for their contributions on and off the field.

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