Australia's cricket stalwart David Warner has bid farewell to Test and One Day International (ODI) cricket, playing his last Test match against Pakistan in Sydney. On the final day of the match (January 6), Warner concluded his illustrious and controversial career with a brilliant innings, playing a crucial role in the team's victory from the eighth wicket. Let's take a look at some key moments and milestones in Warner's career.
Debut Test Series (2011)
David Warner got his first opportunity to play Test cricket against New Zealand on home soil in 2011. In his debut match in Brisbane, he scored just three runs in the first innings and remained unbeaten on 12 in the second. However, in the second Test in Hobart, he showcased his potential by scoring his maiden Test century with an explosive innings of 123 runs. Despite Warner's performance, Australia lost the match by seven runs, but he had already proven that he could be a formidable batsman on the international stage.
Test Blitzkrieg
After displaying patience in his first Test century, Warner unleashed his explosive batting prowess in the next series against India. In the third Test in Perth, he scored a scintillating 180 runs in the first innings, completing his century in just 69 balls, surprising everyone with his aggressive style. Facing fast and swinging deliveries on a lively pitch, Warner's fearless approach saw him hit 13 fours and three sixes, making it the sixth-fastest century in Test cricket history.
Emotional Comeback After Phillip Hughes Tragedy
In November 2014, tragedy struck Australian cricket when cricketer Phillip Hughes passed away after being hit by a bouncer during a Sheffield Shield match. Warner, who was fielding nearby when the incident occurred, was visibly distraught. However, he made a strong comeback in January, scoring a century and paying tribute to Hughes by kissing the ground when he reached 63 runs, Hughes's score when he was struck.
Ball-Tampering Scandal (2018)
In 2018, Warner's name was embroiled in controversy for the first time during the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town, South Africa. He was found instructing Cameron Bancroft to use sandpaper on the ball, resulting in both Warner and captain Steve Smith being suspended from the team. Warner faced emotional moments upon his return to Australia, and the incident led to a one-year ban and a decision that he would never captain Australia.
Triple Century Against Pakistan (2019)
In 2019, Warner showcased his dominance in Test cricket by scoring an incredible triple century against Pakistan in a day-night Test in Adelaide. He amassed an unbeaten 335 runs, breaking Don Bradman's record for the highest individual score at Adelaide Oval. This innings marked Warner's resurgence and solidified his status as one of Australia's greatest Test batsmen.
Final Series Heroics
In his last Test series, Warner maintained his stellar form, scoring 299 runs at an average of 49.83. He registered the only century of the series, further emphasizing his importance as a prolific run-scorer. Australia won the three-match series against Pakistan 3-0, with Warner's contributions playing a crucial role.
Test Career Overview
David Warner's Test career spanned 111 matches, accumulating 8695 runs at an average of 44.59. He scored 26 centuries and 36 half-centuries, leaving a lasting impact on the longest format of the game.
ODI Career Highlights
In ODIs, Warner played 161 matches, scoring 6932 runs at an average of 45.01. His aggressive style reflected in a strike rate of 97.26, including 22 centuries and 33 half-centuries.
In conclusion, David Warner's retirement marks the end of an era in Australian cricket. Despite the controversies, his explosive batting and significant contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport.
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