World Cup 2019: Top 3 batting performances during the warm-up games

#2 Steve Smith makes a smashing return to the international arena

Steve Smith is back

The one-year ban on Steve Smith after the sandpaper controversy is finally over. And the former captain returned to the Australian team with a stunning 116 runs off 102 deliveries under immense pressure, with the English crowd booing him right from the moment he stepped on the field.

Australia notched up 297 for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs and they were able to defeat England who scored 285 all out in the game. The Aussies managed to overcome the negativity that surrounded them throughout, thus laying down a marker for the official tournament.

Smith's skills, composure and perseverance came to the fore in his innings, and he will likely be a force to reckon with throughout the mega event. His fans would be hoping for many more such performances from him.