Warner denies reports of conflict with Smith

Toronto [Canada]: Tainted Australian opener David Warner, who is currently serving a year ban from international and domestic cricket for his involvement in the massive ball-tampering scandal, has rubbished the rumours of a feud with former skipper Steve Smith.

Clearing the air, Warner said that they have had “good and numerous chats” with each other and that the two are still “good mates”.

“But we’re good mates, if you’re at the (player) hotel you will see us hanging out with each other. We haven’t been able to (have a lengthy) catch up because he’s been away and Cameron (Bancroft) has been in Perth and I’ve been doing my thing with my family at home,” cricket.com.au quoted Warner, as saying.

The 31-year-old, meanwhile, also spoke about the ball-tampering incident that sent shock waves through the cricketing world, saying that it was a tough time for him but he is now looking forward.

“Definitely, it has been tough. Not just for me but for my family and also the fans who support Australian cricket. I’m responsible; that’s my fault. I’ve had some tough times but I’m an adult; I’ll move forward and make sure I do the right things at the right time,” Warner said.

The former opener, who is currently playing in Global T20 league, also dismissed the suggestions that he should not be allowed to make a comeback to cricket.

“Critics will be critics and that’s why they’re behind the keyboard, so we’ll move forward and try to ignore that,” he said.

In his first match of the Global T20 League, Warner was dismissed for just one run but his team Winnipeg Hawks registered a 46-run victory over Montreal at Maple Leaf Cricket Club. (ANI)