Warner returns to Australia squad for Windies warm-up –

Opener David Warner was among four big names who returned to Australia’s squad for the two-match Twenty20 series against the West Indies in Queensland on Wednesday, with the World Cup on home soil next month.

Warner, who was rested, was joined by recovering all-rounders Mitchell Marsh (ankle) and Marcus Stoins (side) and pacer Mitchell Starc (knee) as the quartet missed Australia’s series defeat in India. .

Australia will host the Gold Coast on October 5 and the West Indies at the Gabba in Brisbane on October 7.

All-rounder Cameron Greene has been rewarded for his performance in India and has retained his place in the 16-man squad despite not being selected for Australia’s World Cup defence.

Green, who lined up alongside a comfortable Warner as captain Aaron Finch’s opening partner in India, scored two half-centuries as Australia lost the series 2-1.

“We have taken and continue to take a cautious approach with the World Cup on the horizon,” said George Bailey, head of the national selection panel.

“The return of four key players gives us the ability to take a conservative approach with any minor issues and resolve them in time for the World Cup.”

World Cup squad members Kane Richardson and Ashton Agar are being rested for the West Indies matches but Bailey expects them to return for the three-match warm-up series against England next week.

Australia’s World Cup campaign begins on October 22 against New Zealand in Sydney.