Warner set to make CPL debut

David Warner will make his Caribbean Premier League debut after signing on with the St Lucia Stars for the upcoming West Indies-based domestic tournament beginning in early August.

The former vice-captain replaces fellow big-hitting Australian D’Arcy Short, who was ruled out of the tournament after being selected in Australia A’s tour of India.

Warner, who accepted a 12-month sanction following his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal, is set to make a return to cricket in Canada’s inaugural Global T20 tournament for the Winnipeg Hawks later this month alongside Steve Smith, who will also make his cricket comeback.   

The 31-year-old has also committed to playing two one-day matches in the Top End as part of the NT Strike League in late July, while fellow suspended player Cameron Bancroft will play the entire tournament. 

Speaking about the signing of Warner, Stars’ General Manager, Mohammad Khan said the franchise was excited by the addition of such a decorated player.

“We are excited to bring David to the Saint Lucia Stars. David is arguably one of the greatest batsman of the modern era and a winning player,” he said.

“He is going to add a lot of value on the field and in the dressing room as we pursue our first Hero CPL Title.”

The month-long tournament will begin on August 8, with fellow Aussies Shane Watson and Chris Lynn also set to feature.