WATCH: David Warner’s century silences his Critics in farewell Test series opener in Perth
In a resounding response to his critics, star opener David Warner commenced his farewell Test series with a dazzling century on the first day of the Australia-Pakistan Test match in Perth on December 14. Amidst speculation about his place in the XI due to a recent dip in Test form, Warner silenced the skeptics with a determined performance, bringing up his 26th Test century and leveling with the legendary Sir Gary Sobers on the all-time list of Test centurions.
Facing considerable pressure, Warner exhibited a free-flowing and aggressive approach, showcasing his intent to prove his detractors wrong. Backed by the team management and selection committee, Warner, alongside opening partner Usman Khawaja, dominated the inexperienced Pakistan pace bowling attack. Warner’s fiery body language and assertive running between the wickets highlighted his determination.
The Australian opener capitalized on loose deliveries from the Pakistan bowlers in the first session, punishing them with an array of shots. The duo of Warner and Khawaja notched up a solid 126-run partnership for the first wicket before Khawaja fell to Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Warner’s vigilance increased in the second session, but he continued to exploit ordinary bowling, hitting 14 boundaries and a six en route to his first Test century in over a year. The Perth crowd was treated to Warner’s trademark aggressive play, including a T20-like scoop shot for a six off Shaheen Afridi.
Warner’s Century: A Resounding Response to Critics Amidst Farewell Tour
David Warner’s century in the ongoing Test match against Pakistan not only showcased his prowess with the bat but also highlighted his sportsmanship.
Following his century, Warner was seen acknowledging the crowd, or rather his critics, in recent talks, Mitchell Johnson. In the video, Warner can be seen gesturing a “finger on the lips”, metaphorically silencing his skeptics.
Read further: Mitchell Johnson Unleashes Criticism on Warner and Bailey: “Arrogance and Disrespect”
The Test century brought Warner into the company of Test centurions, and he now stands at 26 centuries in the longest format of the game. The innings not only signaled Warner’s intent to retire on a high but also served as a fitting reply to former pacer Mitchell Johnson’s recent criticism.
Johnson, ahead of the Test series, had launched a scathing attack on Warner, questioning the rationale behind granting him a farewell Test series given his recent poor form. Johnson’s remarks also delved into the ball-tampering saga, raising questions about whether Warner deserved to dictate his exit date.
Warner, set to retire from Test cricket after the series, particularly at his home ground in Sydney, seems determined to leave the format with a resounding statement and a never-say-die attitude.
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