As expected by everyone, Steven Smith & David Warner will make a comeback on the international circuit during Australia’s first world cup match against Afghanistan on 1st June.
Easy Road
It is not just about making a comeback but in a tournament as high-octane as the world cup. We must appreciate Cricket Australia for making their road easy. By allowing the duo to play through the IPL, CA made it easier for the duo to handle the pressure. Rushing the pair in a series against Pakistan would have made it situation difficult for both. If one of them would have failed over there, they may not have gained the confidence as much as they are in now.
World Cup Pressure
The world cup is one tournament which defines a cricketer’s journey with price as big as the world championship. Australia being a defending champion, would be under pressure to perform at their best. Hence, the comeback is not as easy. However, IPL experience shall play a very important role here. Win of an orange cup in IPL and instantiating faith in his captaincy shall be a confidence booster for Warner and Smith respectively.
Simple Opening
An opening world cup match against lesser experience side Afghanistan shall be a blessing in disguise for both the Australian members. Though of playing against Afghanistan would ease the comeback pressure. In fact, both the batsmen will try and dominate the opposition to further strengthen their mental status.
Pre World Cup Campaign
The most difficult thing from an individual perspective would have been sharing dressing room again with most of the guys from Newlands. However, Pre world cup campaign organized by Cricket Australia must have eased those nerves. The event is a perfect place to gel back with the team members.
To summarize it all, the international return of Warner and Smith in the world cup should not be a big deal with the perfect platform provided by the Cricket Austrlia.
