IPL 2019: No change in Sunrisers Hyderabad leadership despite David Warner’s return, says VVS Laxman

Despite the return of Australia international David Warner to the Sunrisers Hyderabad fold in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the franchise has no plans to revamp its leadership hierarchy

Despite the return of Australia international David Warner to the Sunrisers Hyderabad fold in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), the franchise has no plans to revamp its leadership hierarchy.

Sunrisers Hyderabad’s David Warner. (AFP)

Warner was handed a year-long ban along with his national team captain Steve Smith for a ball-tampering scandal during their tour of South Africa last March. The duo still has a few days to go before they serve out the time on the sidelines of the national team, however, the suspensions doesn’t impact their participation in the IPL, and other similar leagues.

The hard-hitting Australian batsman missed out on the tournament last year as it came hot on the heels of the controversy in South Africa. He is free to participate this year.

Sunrisers Hyderabad mentor VVS Laxman has revealed that New Zealand star Kane Williamson, who captained the franchise last year, will continue in his role with India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar as his deputy.

“Kane is an outstanding batsman and also a highly respected international player. He has stepped in for us last year and has shown good leadership qualities”, Laxman was quoted as saying by the Times of India.

However, Laxman has no concerns about Warner’s utility in his side.

“We are very proud of what Warner has achieved for the Sunrisers. He’s one of our premier batsmen. Personally, I felt the punishment [for ball-tampering] was not right since I have seen him from close quarters. I am sure that he would continue to contribute for Sunrisers”, the legendary Indian batsman added.