Steve Smith has represented Australia for the first time in more than a year, taking part in a World Cup practice match against New Zealand in Brisbane on Monday.
Smith made 22 from 43 balls batting in his regular No.4 position to help Australia chase down New Zealand's 216 in 48.2 overs.
It was an unimpressive victory for Australia against a second-string New Zealand side at Allan Border Field.
Smith also took a lunging right-handed catch but has learnt to roll the right way so as to avoid inflaming his surgically repaired elbow.
It was the first time the former Australian captain had represented his country since he was handed a year-long ban for his role in the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March last year.
Smith spent the season playing for his boyhood club Sutherland in the NSW Premier Cricket competition, leading them to the first grade T20 premiership and the National T20 Championships before undergoing major elbow surgery.
He returned from injury to play in the Indian Premier League Twenty20 competition with the Rajasthan Royals.
The 29-year-old was given a warm reception on his return, with a number of ovations from the small crowd of just over 1100. At one point a fan reportedly yelled out: "welcome back, Smithy".
Former vice-captain David Warner also made his return from suspension, making 39 from 43 balls batting at the unusual spot of No.3.
Smith replaced Warner upon the latter's dismissal, with his first scoring shot an inside edge. But he quickly found his touch with a delightful straight drive.
Smith fell caught behind off Kiwi paceman Matt Henry playing away from his body but his knock did nothing to suggest he has slipped as one of the game's premier batsmen.
Smith was chosen in Australia's 15-man World Cup squad last month, with the team assembling in Brisbane for a training camp at the National Cricket Centre.
Australia were to play two more practice games against New Zealand on Wednesday and Friday.
Australia will not name their Ashes squad until after the completion of their final practice match against Australia A in Hampshire on July 26, with the first Test against England in Birmingham starting August 1. Though Smith is likely to be included.
Australia opens its World Cup title defence against Afghanistan in Bristol on June 1.
