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Rival's classy plea to fans about Steve Smith, David Warner criticism

English cricketer Moeen Ali has pulled a classy move ahead if the World Cup, asking fans to stay away from personal attacks against Steve Smith and David Warner.

The Australia duo are set to make their return to international cricket at the World Cup, after completing their 12 months bans for the sandpaper ball-tampering scandal.

Some early sledges have been fired before the World Cup even begins, but Ali said he was hopeful it wouldn’t become a talking point throughout the tournament.

“I really hope they don't get too much stick. I want them to enjoy the series," Ali said in an interview with The Guardian.

“If you have to, keep it funny, not personal. We all make mistakes. We are human beings and we have feelings.

The English star was fans to 'keep it funny' and not get carried away.
Moeen Ali wants fans to leave personal shots at Steve Smith and David Warner at home when Australia visits England for the World Cup.. (Photo by Mark Fletcher/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

“I know deep down they are probably really good people. I just hope they get treated decently. I just want the cricket to be spoken about."

Emotional support a priority

Australian coach Justin Langer said the team had made the mental health of the pair a priority as they prepare to face what could be months of abuse from English cricket fans during the World Cup.

Langer said it was important to remember that Smith and Warner are ‘human’ as they return to top-flight cricket.

“What we’ve got to understand is that they’re human beings as well,” Langer said.

“There’s not too many I’ve met in my life who like being booed or heckled or disliked.

“We’re going to have to care for them, we’re going to have to put an arm around them and make sure they’re going ok.

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“(Crowd abuse) may heat up, but it won’t be any hotter than it was 12 months ago, so the boys are well prepared.

“We’re expecting to come here and to face the fire and we’re ready for that.”

The Aussies will play a practice game against the West Indies on Wednesday (AEST) as Langer looks to ensure the side is ready to make a push for the World Cup.

Australia has won four of the last five World Cups, dating back to 1999.

with AAP