Australian cricket opener David Warner has made a shocking announcement just days before the highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) Final against India at The Oval. Warner disclosed on Saturday that he has decided to retire from Test cricket, bringing an end to his illustrious career in the format following the upcoming Australian summer.
Currently in London preparing for the WTC Final, Warner shared his retirement plans with reporters in Beckenham. He revealed that he aims to conclude his Test career after Australia’s match against Pakistan in January, which will take place at his home ground in Sydney. This decision rules him out of the subsequent two-match Test series against West Indies. However, Warner clarified that he will continue playing white-ball cricket for Australia until the 2024 T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the West Indies and the USA.
Warner expressed, “You’ve got to score runs. I’ve always said the (2024) World Cup would probably be my final game. I probably owe it to myself and my family – if I can score runs here and continue to play back in Australia – I can definitely say I won’t be playing that West Indies series. If I can get through this (WTC Final and ensuing Ashes campaign) and make the Pakistan series, I will definitely finish up then.”
Acknowledging that his spot in the XI is not guaranteed, Warner emphasized the importance of consistent performance as he prepares for the six-Test tour of the UK. He acknowledged his struggles during the previous Ashes tour in 2019, where he averaged only 10 and faced challenges against deliveries from Stuart Broad. The 36-year-old is hopeful that his impressive form from the recently-concluded IPL season will translate into success in red-ball cricket.
Warner expressed his desire to participate in the 2024 World Cup, stating that it remains a goal in the back of his mind. He acknowledged the cricketing commitments leading up to the tournament, including IPL and other franchise leagues, and highlighted the need to find a rhythm before the event.
While concluding his statement, Warner mentioned the possibility of playing a Sheffield Shield game for New South Wales, indicating that he intends to remain involved in cricket following his Test retirement.
This unexpected retirement announcement has caught the cricketing world off guard, adding an extra layer of significance to Warner’s upcoming performances in the WTC Final and the Ashes series. As the Australian team prepares for these crucial encounters, fans will eagerly anticipate Warner’s contributions and celebrate his remarkable Test career, which is soon to come to an end.
Source by agencies.
