Opening batsman Warner, who tormented South Africa with a fine century in Australia’s 36-run win over the Proteas in St. Kitts, on Saturday, has been the kingpin in Australia’s batting line-up on what have been difficult batting wickets in the West Indies and Smith admitted that Warner’s absence will be a blow for his team.
However, he is confident that Warner, who injured his finger in the match against South Africa, will be fit for the upcoming test series against Sri Lanka.
“I think he is out for the tri-series, but I think that that most important thing from my aspect is that he is fit for the test series, I think it is about six weeks away before the first test. I think the medical staff and Davey are confident that he will be ready for the first test,” Smith told a news conference.
“It’s always tough missing a player like Davey. He is in the form of his life at the moment and had been batting beautifully. It is obviously a big loss for us. He has played beautifully at the top of the order on some difficult wickets for batting. I think there will be a bit of an onus on the player coming in and the guys in the top four to try and get the job done. There have been some quite slow wickets in the series so far. It is about adapting and trying to get in. It might take a bit longer than usual but once you get in you need to cash in,”
Australia’s selectors have yet to decide if a replacement player will be called up to the touring squad but it is likely that Usman Khawaja will be elevated in the batting line-up to open with Aaron Finch.
