New Delhi:
The 2019 cricket calendar has been nothing short of a roller coaster ride for players as well as fans. With the month switching to August, it’s time for the third most important series – Ashes. A series which involves emotions, excitement, sorrows, and a lot more. Australia has named their 17-member squad for the bilateral series and three names which came into limelight for every cricket fan were – David Warner, Steve Smith, and Cameron Bancroft for obvious reasons.
And it wouldn’t be wrong to say that Australian management was ‘desperately’ waiting for their bans to get over as the things took a downward spiral ever since the infamous incident. Since their departure, things didn’t look up well for Australians. Statistically, from being one of the most formidable cricketing teams on the planet, the Aussies found themselves on the other end of the cricketing spectrum, with pundit and audiences lamenting over the ‘downfall of the Australian men’s team.’
A lot of questions, analysis, and theories came up especially when Steve Smith and David Warner were sidelined. The media had spun a predictable narrative, equating the Australian Men’s team performance with Warner and Smith’s exit and had even called it a day to Australia’s chances in the recently concluded ICC World Cup 2019, with many opined that men-in-yellow will not finish in top 4.
However, with Warner’s effort upfront coupled with Smith’s performance lower down the order and Starc stamping authority with the ball, Australia did make their way through to the yet another World Cup semi-final.
Warner, Smith, and Bancroft have worked regressively with the full fortitude to make things happen for themselves and the team in last month and a half. From posting their workouts, to playing in leagues across the world, to connecting with their fans – they have done it all.
With Smith and Warner being able to prove themselves in the limited overs, it’s time for redemption for the trio in the longest format as it all began in white clothes.
In the longest format of the game, where all players look to leave a mark this will certainly be one of the best opportunities for them to utilize his form and come out all guns. If they can play like the way we have seen them playing over the years, Australia may well fancy their chances of winning Ashes in England. More importantly, it will be an opportunity to rewrite the already scripted 2018 nightmare.
