Smith, Warner return ‘will boost Australia’

The inclusion of Steve Smith and David Warner will help the team shrug off a woeful run of form in one-day cricket and transform them into genuine contenders at the World Cup in England, Australia assistant coach Ricky Ponting says.

Smith and Warner’s balltampering bans expire on March 29 and though the pair are struggling with elbow injuries, former captain Ponting said the presence of Australia’s two top batsmen in England would boost their hopes of back-to-back titles.

“India and England are probably the two standout teams right now, but if you add Warner and Smith back into that lineup, I think that team looks as strong as any,” Ponting said in Melbourne on Sunday.

“With the inclusion of two of the best one-day players in the world and a lot of experience, all of a sudden the team starts looking a lot better.

“Conditions in England will suit our style of play. I think Australia will be one of the main contenders for sure.”

Ponting has replaced Graeme Hick as batting coach on a short-term appointment for the World Cup, which starts at the end of May.