Cricket Australia makes call on sanctioning David Warner over new ball-tampering accusation

Cricket Australia has told Yahoo Sport Australia it won't attempt to muzzle David Warner despite the former Test opener straying into some contentious areas as he straddles his on and off-field commitments. Warner was very vocal about the ball tampering allegations in last week's Australia A v India A fixture in Mackay, accusing CA of sweeping the incident under the carpet for risk of upsetting the powerful Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ahead of this summer's Test series.

India A was cleared of any wrongdoing despite umpire Shaun Craig ordering a replacement ball after ruling the tourists scratched the original one. "When you scratch it, we change the ball. No more discussion," Craig told the Indians.

Warner, who has joined the Fox Cricket team while also being named captain of BBL outfit Sydney Thunder, had no doubt India's dominant position in world cricket ensured the issue went no further. "The ultimate decision's with CA, isn’t it? They have obviously squashed it as fast as they could, given that India is coming out here this summer," he said.

Warner has also been forthright in his thoughts over who should replace him as Test opener – at one stage offering to come out of retirement to play again – and revisited Sandpapergate after having his leadership ban overturned this week. "I'm going to call it how it is," Warner promised as his ability to create headlines continues in international retirement.

But given his position with Thunder, Warner technically must adhere to CA's strict media policy, which states players must not denigrate or criticises the governing body. Cricket Australia chair, Mike Baird, told Yahoo Sport Australia he is comfortable with Warner speaking his mind.

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Cricket Australia happy for David Warner to speak his mind

"Whether he's playing or not, David Warner will always have a voice given his unbelievable career in cricket. I think it's terrific," Baird said. "It makes the commentary relevant. He's played with those players he's mentioned - and is currently playing with some of those (other) players – and that gives a fresh perspective, which I think is good for the game.

"It's one of the great things about cricket. Players and former players will have views across a whole range of issues. I'd encourage good, open discussion. The last thing we want to do is curtail anyone's view or perspective.

"Everyone contributing on various debates or issues…I think that's a good thing." Baird also denied CA was guilty of kow-towing to the influential BCCI. He said: "From our point of view, having a good working relationship with India is a big part of cricket.

"And it's a good relationship. We're totally aligned in trying to grow the game, trying to grow the women's game, trying to give the best opportunities for our players and fans. The India-Australia rivalry, and obviously the Ashes contests, are the epicentre of the game."