IPL 2019: Warner's leadership skills are unmatched, says SRH mentor Laxman

David Warner, along with Steve Smith, is returning from their year-long ban for their involvement in ball tampering scandal in South Africa

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) mentor VVS Laxman is delighted to have David Warner back in the mix as his " unmatched leadership skills" is a big plus for the franchise. While Kane Williamson will once again be leading the side, Warner's inputs and influence on the team members makes him an important part of the leadership group.

Warner, along with Steve Smith, is returning from their year-long ban for their involvement in ball tampering scandal in South Africa.

“There is a big difference because he (Warner) is a world class player. For us as a franchise, we are so proud of what he has achieved for Sunrisers. He is not only a premier match-winner but his leadership skills are also unmatched,” Laxman said during a media conference.

“The kind of role he played in the development of a lot of youngsters in the franchise. He is setting an example with his work ethic and the kind of preparation he does before every match," Laxman told reporters at an event here.

SRH head coach Tom Moody feels that the prolonged absence will not have an impact on his performance.

“David Warner's frame of mind I think is a positive one. Certainly, through my communication with David has all been a positive one. When you are a world class player and you got an unquenchable thirst to succeed. When a game of cricket is taken from you and once it is handed back, you need to do a lot of catching up and David will be determined to the best,” Moody said. 

Laxman is hopeful that new additions like New Zealander Martin Guptill and Englishman Jonny Bairstow strengthen the squad along with India regular Vijay Shankar, former U-19 World Cupper Abhishek Sharma and India A left-arm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem in the mix.