Aussies looking goods for T20 Cup tilt
CRICKET: Skipper Aaron Finch has praised Steve Smith after a triumphant return to Cape Town for the former Australian captain.
Smith and David Warner vanquished the demons of Sandpapergate, playing starring roles in the Aussies T20 win to seal the three-match series with South Africa and announce Australia’s claims as World Cup heavyweights.
Warner (55 off 37) smashed his second straight half-century, while Smith showcased his evolution as a Twenty20 finisher with an awesome display of late hitting in the 97run obliteration of South
Africa in the series decider.
Before his 12-month ban for his part in the ball-tampering plot, Smith’s abilities at T20 cricket were questioned.
But he’s returned as Australia’s Mr Fix it for all scenarios – pushed down to No.5 to deliver a dazzling 30 not out off 15 – including two sixes in the last over – as the team’s finisher.
“To have that ability to come in and try and strike at 200 when the game requires it, or come in at 2-10 and navigate through a tricky six or seven overs, but still score – the ability to do that has been extraordinary for him,” said Finch.
As Glenn Maxwell celebrated his engagement back in Australia, it became increasingly clear he will reclaim his place in the middle-order once recovered from elbow surgery.
Matthew Wade and Mitchell Marsh get another opportunity to fire against New Zealand, but the game of musical chairs is about to begin.
Captain Finch isn’t worried, but forecast Maxwell’s likely return.
“We’re always really reluctant to change a winning formula and obviously with Maxi recovering from injury at the moment, that’s one of those spots there,” he said.