Aaron Finch: David Warner is a fighter

Skipper Aaron Finch backs Aussie opener to come good in upcoming T20 World Cup despite poor IPL form

A fully-fit Australian skipper Aaron Finch has said that there is no doubt about David Warner’s place in the side as they gear up for the ICC T20 World Cup in the UAE and Oman, despite the opener not being in the best form for his IPL franchise, Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Finch, who was at one stage in doubt for the tournament after requiring an operation on a knee injury sustained in July, is now preparing to play in Australia’s first warm-up match on October 18. “Originally it was touch and go to be available for the two warm-up games, but at the moment it looks like there’ll be no problems so I’m looking forward to getting out and back into it,” Finch said on Thursday at the ICC captain’s call.

Aaron Finch

Partnering Finch at the top of the order will be Warner and the skipper is in no doubt over the veteran’s spot in the side despite his lean second half in the IPL in Dubai, where SRH finished last on the points table. “Over the years we’ve seen when he’s [Warner] got his back against the wall he’s a fighter. I’ve got no issues with the preparation he’s had. He’s come here in great spirits, he’s come here with a great attitude and that’s rubbing off on the boys. He’s organising things behind the scenes; he’s doing everything that he loves to do. I’ve got no issues and come game one he’ll be ready to go,” said Finch.

What’s less certain is the make-up of Australia’s middle order and Finch says that is by design. With Steven Smith, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, Marcus Stoinis and wicketkeeper Matthew Wade all in the mix for selection and all capable of batting from No.3 to No.8, Finch says the Australians will be flexible through the middle overs throughout the tournament. That will be particularly pertinent for Maxwell and Smith, who Finch sees as key men. “The role of our middle-order [batters] will all be really flexible,” Finch said, when asked of Maxwell’s spot in the XI.

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