David Warner to Play in BGT 2024-25?
Former Australian opener David Warner, who retired from Test cricket in January 2024, has left the door open for a sensational return to the longest format of the game. With Australia struggling to find a reliable opener alongside Usman Khawaja since Warner’s departure, the team’s management may consider bringing back the veteran for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series against India. So let’s take a look at David Warner to Play in BGT 2024-25.
Warner’s Test career was nothing short of remarkable. In 112 Tests, he scored 8786 runs at an impressive average of 44.59. His tally includes 26 centuries and 37 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks across the world.
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While Warner retired from Test cricket to end his career on his own terms, his recent remarks suggest that he hasn’t completely closed the chapter on representing Australia again, especially if the team is in need of his experience and skill.
Australia’s Struggles Without Warner
Following Warner’s retirement, Australia experimented with different options to fill the void. One of the boldest decisions made by the selectors was to promote star batsman Steve Smith to open the innings. However, this move did not yield the desired results.
In four Test matches as an opener, Smith scored 171 runs at an average of just 28.50, managing only one fifty. The lack of a specialist opener became a concern as Australia looked ahead to the BGT series.
Acknowledging this issue, Australia’s chair of selectors, George Bailey, recently confirmed that Smith would return to his usual No. 4 position for the upcoming series. With the team in need of a seasoned opener, Warner’s name has resurfaced as a potential solution.
Warner’s Readiness to Play Again
In a surprising statement, Warner expressed his willingness to don the Baggy Green once again, should the Australian team require his services. The 37-year-old left-hander, who has been enjoying his retirement, said he is more than ready to make a comeback if asked.
“I am always available, just got to pick up the phone. I am always dead serious. Let’s be honest, the guys have played one red-ball game since their last Test matches in February, so I’ve almost had the same preparation,” Warner said.
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He added that if the selectors wanted him to play, he would participate in the ongoing Sheffield Shield tournament to prepare for a potential Test recall.
