Finch channels Smith, Warner

Having broken the ice over beers in Dubai, Aaron Finch believes Australia can ensure Steve Smith and David Warner’s return doesn’t become a distraction at the World Cup.

A ‘‘nervous’’ Smith and Warner spent less than 24 hours with Australia’s 15-man ODI squad in the United Arab Emirates last weekend but the short stopover was enough to generate hundreds of headlines around the world.

The intrigue and scrutiny will continue to build as Australia’s World Cup opener on June 1 draws closer, with Shane Warne saying English crowds will ‘‘absolutely give it to’’ the disgraced duo during the 50-over tournament.

‘‘The reality is there’s going to be a lot written and said about their returns. We’d be very naive if we didn’t expect that,’’ Finch said.

‘‘You just have to go about your own business and make sure you don’t let that become a distraction.’’

Another key factor in Australia’s World Cup defence will be how Finch, appointed ODI and Twenty20 captain in the wreckage of the sandpaper scandal, and two of his predecessors work together.

Finch declared he’d be ‘‘silly’’ not to seek the tactical wisdom of Smith, who Cricket Australia (CA) has barred from holding a leadership position for a further year, and Warner, who has been branded ‘‘never to lead again’’ by CA.

‘‘They’re such great resources to have as a captain. It’s important you lean on them when you need to,’’ Finch said.

‘‘But them going about their own business, preparing and getting their mind right to play is the most important thing for the side.’’