David Warner ruled out of ongoing New Zealand tour

David Warner will miss the final T20I against New Zealand in Auckland due to an adductor injury, but he is expected to be fit ahead of the start of the IPL 2024 next month. The veteran Australian batter was rested during Friday's second T20I as part of Australia's rotation strategy throughout the series. Fortunately, the injury is minor and will not disrupt his participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL). The legendary Australian opener will be representing the Delhi Capitals in the lucrative tournament and captained the team in the previous season in the absence of Rishabh Pant.

Warner's recovery time is projected to be around seven to ten days. His absence from the final match of the series marks the conclusion of his bilateral international career, coinciding with his retirement from Australia duty ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. In the opening game in Wellington, he amassed 32 runs off 20 balls before facing criticism from the home crowd, reminiscent of the reception he received during the 2016 tour, as previously mentioned by Warner.

"Warner will require a brief recovery period which is not expected to affect his availability for the upcoming Indian Premier League leading into the Men's T20 World Cup," a Cricket Australia statement said.

David Warner has been withdrawn from the New Zealand tour, presenting another opportunity to open the batting for Steve Smith #NZvAUS https://t.co/ewVViy3Ssy

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) February 24, 2024

Matthew Wade to take up leadership role

Warner's absence creates an opportunity for Steven Smith to potentially solidify his position in the World Cup squad with another chance at the top of the order. Smith's brief innings of 11 runs off 7 balls in the second T20I included a daring scooped six before he was dismissed lbw by Lockie Ferguson's first delivery. Despite Smith's prospects, it appears unlikely that he will secure a starting berth at the World Cup, as Warner, Travis Head, and Mitchell Marsh are expected to occupy the top three positions.

Matt Short also featured in the first match in Wellington without making an impact with bat or ball, is poised for another opportunity. There is a chance that Marsh will be rested ahead of the Test series, potentially leading to Matthew Wade assuming leadership duties. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also expected to be rested for Sunday's match after appearing in the first two games, with Mitchell Starc and Spencer Johnson ready to step in as replacements.