Warner Silences Critics With Big Hundred That Paves Way For SCG Retirement

Summary:

• Warner made a magnificent 164 on the opening day of the first test against Pakistan
• Many critics felt Warner should not be able to pick when he retires due to his poor form
• Warner will now most likely have the opportunity to retire at his home ground, the SCG

David Warner hogged the headlines in the lead up to the three match test series between Australia and Pakistan. Warner copped heavy criticism in the media, especially from his former team mate Mitch Johnson who felt that Warner should not have been selected and he most certainly should not be given the opportunity to retire at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

The 37 year old Warner who hasn’t been in the best of form in test cricket for the last 3 years, made it clear that this would be his last test series and he would like to retire at the SCG. The third test against Pakistan takes place from Jan 3 to 7, 2024.

Warner silenced all of his critics by scoring a brilliant 164 on the opening day of the first test against Pakistan. Warner played aggressively at the top of the order and finished with a strike rate in excess of 77 to put Australia in a strong position at the close of play.

When Warner crossed 100, he celebrated with a gesture that said ‘shush’ and it was directed at the commentary box as Mitch Johnson was in attendance doing some commentary.

Warner would later say in an interview

You saw what it was – it was a nice little quiet shush. If people are out to get you, or make a headline from your name, then so be it. I can’t worry about that, I’m going to worry about what I’m going to do for the team.

Warner has all but guaranteed himself an SCG farewell with that big hundred and will get to walk away from test cricket on his terms. In scoring his 164 against Pakistan, David Warner has now surpassed former opener Matthew Hayden and former captain Michael Clarke and is now the 5th leading run scorer in test cricket for Australia.

Warner has now played 110 tests and scored 8,651 runs for Australia at an average of just over 45.