Warner begins journey back into good books

DAVID Warner’s road to redemption began with a 2km time trial in Sydney yesterday just hours after his cricketing comeback in Canada was locked in.

The banned opener was one of five Aussies, including former captain Steve Smith, draft- ed into the new Global T20 Canada competition that will be played this month.

Warner will play for Winnipeg Hawks in the six-team tournament, beside Queenslander Ben McDermott, while Smith was drafted by the Toronto Nationals.

Big hitter Chris Lynn (Edmonton Royals) and vet- eran leg spinner Fawad Ahmed (Vancouver Knights) will also take part.

Warner posted on Twitter: “Really excited to be a part of @gt20canada. Thanks to the Winnipeg Hawks for selecting me to play in what will be a really competitive tournament.

“Prep steps up this week in the nets.”

Warner posted a picture of himself beginning a time trial with fellow NSW players as the bulk of Australia’s first class cricketers returned to training.

Smith’s Sydney grade side, Sutherland, confirmed he would turn out in club cricket when the summer begins.

Warner will also play a couple of games in the Northern Territory Strike League in July.

The T20 competition in Canada is stacked with West Indians, and all matches will take place at Maple Leaf Cricket Club, near Toronto, which will be expanded to 7000 seats. The month-long competition, from June 28 will feature five Canadian sides and a West Indies representative team.