Steve Smith and David Warner must show 'humility' in Australia squad, says Justin Langer
Sunday 5 May 2019 11:40, UK
Steve Smith and David Warner will need to develop "humility" under new leadership in the Australia squad, says head coach Justin Langer.
Former captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were named in Australia's World Cup squad last month after serving year-long bans for ball-tampering and will now play under a new leadership group with limited overs skipper Aaron Finch.
The duo have been welcomed back into the fold and the 15-man squad are training in Brisbane in advance of the defence of their World Cup title, which precedes a busy summer of international cricket which includes the Ashes.
"There's no tension, honestly. Were so excited to have the boys back, we're just so excited about playing cricket," Langer said.
"It's been a big build up to it. It's a bit like facing fast bowling, isn't it? You worry about it until you get out there and it's not as bad as you thought it was.
"It's the same with the boys coming back in."
Langer believes Smith and Warner, who played in this season's Indian Premier League for Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively, will be "crucial" for success on and off the field.
However, the former Australia opener believes both players face a challenge adjusting to their diminished standing.
"We'll draw on their experience on and off the field and we would be absolutely crazy not to," he said.
"There are certainly going to be challenges for both of them, though. When you've come from a titled position of captain, there's going to be a certain degree of humility that comes with that.
"But one of our really strong values is humility so it will be a great opportunity for them to develop that."
