There was speculation that Australia’s series against Pakistan – starting March 22 – would be the scene for Steven Smith and David Warner’s returns from their bans for ball tampering. But neither of them will be playing any part in the five ODIs scheduled in the UAE.
The 15-man squad for that tour was released on Friday with another big name – Mitchell Starc – due to injury.
“While their bans will be finished on March 28,” chairman of selectors Trevor Hohns said, “Steve and David have been working through rehabilitation from elbow surgery and it has been agreed the best pathway for them to return to play is in the Indian Premier League, a strong competition which features some of the world’s best players.
“David will play with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Steve with Rajastan Royals. Cricket Australia will continue to liaise with both Steve, David and their IPL clubs to monitor progress as we build towards the ICC World Cup and the Ashes.”
Australia’s squad: Aaron Finch (c), Pat Cummins (vc), Alex Carey (vc), Jason Behrendorff, Nathan Coulter-Nile, Peter Handscomb, Usman Khawaja, Nathan Lyon, Shaun Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, Marcus Stoinis, Ashton Turner, Adam Zampa
More to follow
Source: ESPN Crickinfo