Lehmann confident Warner will play

Australia coach Darren Lehmann is backing David Warner to be fit for the first Test against Pakistan in Dubai on October 22.

The World No.5-ranked Test batsman broke down with a groin strain in last Sunday’s third one-dayer against Pakistan in Abu Dhabi after hitting 128 runs at 42.66 in the three-game series.

Warner has been ruled out of this week’s four-day game against Pakistan A, but was able to walk laps of Sharjah Cricket Stadium at the tea interval on Thursday.

Speaking mid-way through the second day’s play, Lehmann said he was “pretty confident” Warner would play in the first Test.

“Only time will tell. He’s walking around no dramas,” Lehmann said.

“I think he will be fine.”

Back-up opener Phil Hughes made a scratchy 14 in Australia’s first innings on Thursday and will be keen to get a good score in the second innings to boost his confidence if he’s called upon to play in the Dubai Test.

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