David Warner is still captaincy material as far as NSW are concerned.
Despite being told by Blues’ chief executive Andrew Jones to limit his “distractions” off the field after missing a grade game last weekend, Warner has been endorsed by coach Trevor Bayliss as a future leader.
Warner’s captaincy credentials have previously been spruiked by Australian skipper Michael Clarke, but ultimately it was veteran Brad Haddin who was called upon to replace Shane Watson as national vice-captain.
After a year of disciplinary issues, Warner’s abilities as a leader of men may have receded in the estimation of some.
However, Bayliss said regardless of the circumstances, it’s part of Warner’s make-up to be a leading voice amongst teammates.
“David’s always a very positive kind of character,” said Bayliss, who is preparing his team to bounce back from a last-start loss in the Ryobi Cup when they face Western Australia on Sunday at Hurstville Oval.
“We just had a team meeting and (Warner) was the main voice. He plays a role like that with our team behind the scenes that not a lot of people see.
“He’s a guy that could be a captain down the line.
“He’s captained the (Sydney) Thunder in one or two games before and done a good job and I’m sure if given an opportunity in that capacity (again) he could do a good job.”
Experienced coach Bayliss has looked to toughen up the mindset of his team since taking charge for the 2013-14 season, as NSW look to win their first Shield and Ryobi Cup trophies in several seasons.
Bayliss said regardless of the personnel he has unavailable due to national commitments, there are no excuses for NSW not winning cricket games.
He’s confident the sweeping changes to the NSW front office means the Blues can get on with the business of winning.
“I’m happy where they are compared to other teams I’ve been in charge of over the past 12 years or so,” he said.
“I’d like to run a squad where there are as few issues as possible, which allows the players the freedom to best produce their best.”
Bayliss also doesn’t want players focusing on playing for Australia whenever they’re wearing a blue shirt.
“Your focus when you’re here with us is on playing for NSW and winning games for NSW,” he said.
“If we do that and there are players in our team playing well and if you’re playing well you’ll get selected to play for Australia.”