'Bad-Boy' David Warner a Prime Candidate to be Australia's Future Vice-Captain?
There has been enormous speculation in the Australian media that David Warner could be named deputy to Steve Smith once Michael Clarke calls time on his career. This despite the presence of other seniors like Shane Watson and Brad Haddin.
There was a time when his bad boy image gave Cricket Australia officials massive headaches. The same officials, according to reports, may be considering the prospect of elevating him as the vice-captain of the national team. The fiery and flamboyant batsman has indeed come a long way - from talking with his mouth to scoring precious runs with his bat. David Warner is in line for a big promotion in Australian cricket.
Australian media last week speculated that Warner may be promoted to the vice-captain's position once current skipper Michael Clarke hangs up his boots. While Clarke's position as captain of the side will be taken over by young Steve Smith, 28-year-old Warner is set for the deputy's role. (Form not fitness the reason for Michael Clarke's struggle, says Aussie batting coach)
For a brief moment during a tour match against Derbyshire, Clarke went off the field and since Smith wasn't playing in the match, Warner took charge for a few overs. And he looked completely at ease. "I thoroughly enjoyed it," he would tell reporters later. "I basically gave the speech in the team meeting and said 'we're all here, we're all captains'." (Also read: Chris Rogers returns to Aussie Ashes squad)
It isn't as if the Australian team does not have other candidates for vice-captaincy. Seniors like Shane Watson and Brad Haddin have the right credentials too. With international sides looking at the future however, it won't be surprising if Warner does indeed get the nod. After all, he does captain Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League and his attacking approach can prove to be a boon for the teams he plays for.