Australian legend Greg Chappell has called for an end to David Warner‘s leadership ban, stating that the explosive opening batter would have led the national team well if given the opportunity.
Notably, Warner has not held any leadership position in Australian cricket since the infamous 2018 ball-tampering scandal. The New South Wales batter, who was vice-captain at the time, was involved with the then skipper Steve Smith and batter Cameron Bancroft in the ball-tampering incident.
Both Warner and Smith were handed bans from international cricket for a year. When it comes to leadership bans, Warner received a lifetime ban while Smith was given one year.
“He obviously had a central role in what happened, but he was not the only one that was involved, and I don’t know why he should be treated any differently,” said Chappell on Fox Sports.
“He’s served his punishment, he is a good leader in the side, and no doubt if he had had the opportunity, I’m sure he would have captained the side quite well. I think he’s paid his penalty, and it’s time to open it up for leadership roles,” added Chappell.
Last month, Australia’s current Test captain Pat Cummins had also shared his take on Warner’s leadership ban mentioning that he disagrees with the concept of a life ban. Cummins further had heaped praises on Warner’s leadership abilities.
“I do have views. Fundamentally, banning someone for life, I disagree with. People are allowed to learn and improve and grow. So yeah, fundamentally, I disagree with that concept. He’s a fantastic leader around our squad here. If he has a formal role, he’d be fantastic with that as well. So if that ever came up, he’d be great,” Cummins had said while speaking to media during the Sri Lanka tour.
