Warner to miss Zimbabwe tri-series

Australia opener cites draining playing schedule, family reasons for pulling out

SYDNEY: Australia opener David Warner on Friday pulled out of the limited-overs tour of Zimbabwe in August, citing a draining playing schedule and the upcoming birth of his first child.

The adventurous left-hander, who is playing in the Indian Premier League, said on his website that he would not take part in the tri-series with South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Warner, 27, said his schedule, including last southern summer's Ashes series against England and the tour of South Africa, had taken its toll and he wanted to be at home ahead of the expected arrival of his first child in September.

Australia are set to play four one-dayers in the tournament in Harare, two against each African nation, as well as a potential final.

"With the World Cup coming up next year and the fact that it's an ODI tri-series in Zimbabwe, I would normally immediately put my hand up for selection," wrote Warner.

"That's because playing for Australia is what I've always wanted to do since I was a youngster and you never want to miss an opportunity.

"But that's what happens in life, you settle down, you get married and you have children. After a long few months of non-stop cricket and, with a baby on the way, I need some time off."

Australian coach Darren Lehmann said family coming first was an important part of his team philosophy and he had approved of Warner's decision.

Warner will return to the national set-up for October's series against Pakistan in the UAE.

"We are 100% supportive of David choosing to stay home and await the birth of his first baby," said Lehmann.

"It is an important time in anyone's life and I am a firm believer that family comes first."

Warner has become an indispensable part of the Australian Test and ODI teams with eight Test centuries and two tons in the limited format of the game.