Cricket Australia likely to lift Warner's captaincy ban

Directors of Cricket Australia are trying to rewrite the organization's code of ethics and are considering revoking David Warner's lifetime leadership ban as early as Friday.

Warner had captaincy ban hanging over his head since the ball-tampering scandal in 2018, and he is eager to have it lifted. The 35-year-old has been considered as a possible candidate for Australia's empty one-day leadership position, but due to his suspension, he is ineligible.
Under the current rules, athletes who accept an ethical sanction forfeit their ability to have the matter reviewed.

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In order to review Warner's ban, CA's code would need to be modified, a topic that will be discussed at Friday's board meeting in Hobart.

Chairman Lachlan Henderson stated that Cricket Australia believes David is performing exceptionally well on the field and making a significant contribution off the field. "Regarding David's leadership suspension, the first step is to analyse the code and determine whether those consequences are subject to reconsideration. And the necessary code modifications that would be required."

Henderson stated that, if judged necessary, the code would be modified before a decision on the one-day captaincy is made.

"We intend to review the code as quickly as possible. It is not in anyone's best interest to prolong that, "Henderson remarked. "The time has come for any future leadership discussions regarding David."

There are however obstacles to overcome. CA is concerned that any changes made to the code in cooperation with Simon Longstaff, the ethics commissioner, could have repercussions beyond Warner.

In addition, CEO Nick Hockley emphasised that players had the right to demonstrate they had changed since receiving a lifelong ban.

Hockley stated, "In very simple terms, we are considering reviewing punishments for good behaviour and growth after a period of time." "Subsequent to tomorrow's debate, a rewrite of the code would be required, which would require board approval."

CA declared a $5.1 million deficit for the 2021-22 fiscal year at its annual general meeting on Thursday.

Smith formerly held positions with the Australian Cricketers' Association and was important in the 2019 introduction of a parental leave policy.

Former Cricket Victoria chair David Maddocks was also voted in as Michelle Tredenick's replacement.

Meanwhile, Australia cricket board  have not decided whether to lift a ban on bilateral matches against Afghanistan prior to a three-match ODI series early next year.

Australia declined to host Afghanistan while it was under Taliban rule last summer, but they have agreed to play them in the men's T20 World Cup on November 4 because it is an ICC event.