David Warner is confident of his fitness for next week's first Test against New Zealand, but concedes the ongoing pain from a broken thumb is something that will be with him for the rest of his career.
Newly installed Australian vice-captain Warner will play his first match since being hit by a Steven Finn bouncer when NSW play their opening round Sheffield Shield day/night fixture against South Australia at Adelaide Oval starting on Wednesday.
It is his first hit-out in over six weeks and his sole preparation for the three-Test series against the Black Caps starting next week.
Speaking at Sydney Airport on Tuesday as NSW prepared to fly out to Adelaide, Warner said he was still in some discomfort and was likely to have the pain throughout his career. But the 28-year-old said that was part and parcel of cricket.
"I think I got hit against India in Brisbane on the same thumb last season as well and the pain is always going to be there," Warner said.
"It is about me getting through that pain. You speak to any wicketkeeper in the world - they are playing with broken fingers so I am not complaining at all."
Warner said he would wear a splint on his left thumb while fielding but said the injury, which still appeared slightly swollen, would be 100 per cent come the first Test against New Zealand at the 'Gabba starting Thursday week.
"Everything is very positive at this stage," he said.
"Unless I cop another one on the thumb while I am practising or batting out in the middle that is the only thing that will hinder my selection for the first Test.
"Two weeks ago the doctor said to me come three or four days before the first Test it should be completely healing.
"You are never worried about getting hit, the thing about cricket is you always have to go in there with a positive frame of mind."
Warner wouldn't be drawn on his preference as an opening partner in Brisbane following the retirement of Chris Rogers. Cameron Bancroft, is seen by many as the player most likely take Rogers' place.
"I'm not a selector, for me it is about having someone at the other end I can trust as I have done with all the other partners that have come before," Warner said.
"It is disappointing to lose Chris but it is another opportunity for another young player to come along and put his hand up for selection and leave their legacy behind as well."
The first Test starts at the Gabba on November 5.
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