Xtra Time Web Desk: Australia test captain Tim Paine on Wednesday confirmed that star opener David Warner will make a comeback into the side for the third test match against India at Sydney Cricket Ground, starting from Thursday. Paine put an end to speculations over the availability of the dashing opener who was forced to miss the first two test matches due to a groin injury he suffered during the second ODI at SCG last month.
The 36 year old Australian captain also indicated that young sensation Will Pucovski can also make his debut. The inclusion of 22-year-old Will Pucovski can see David Warner get his 12th opening partner in the format. Matthew Wade, Australia’s makeshift opener for the previous Tests, could see himself back in the middle order and that could lead to the benching of Travis Head.
“We’ve got a team but we’re just not releasing it at the moment,” Paine said in a media conference this morning.
“The boys are still training so we’ll get through that first, unscathed and then we’ll try to get a team out as quickly as we can after that.
“Obviously with David (Warner) playing and potentially more, there’s some conversations that need to be had first.”
“Davey’s been awesome, he brings really high intensity and fills guys with confidence around him,” Paine said of Warner’s return.
‘He’s a player that you love having on your side.
‘He’s always got plenty to say, really energetic, very professional and I’ve always loved playing.
“He’s a player in this team guys love to have in the side, so he’s made an instant impact with that energy and intensity that he brings.
“Will’s been fantastic as well.
“He’s been out of the bubble for a couple of weeks, so he’s excited, he’s fresh and he’s been batting really well in the nets and looks ready to go if he’s called upon,” Tim Paine said in a media conference this morning.
The four match test series is levelled at 1-1 with both teams eyeing to take a lead at SCG.