- David Warner has left fans furious with his retirement U-turn
- Offered to align with Australia in Test series against India
In cricket, numbers rarely lie, and when it comes to David Warner batting against India in recent years, the ‘retired’ star’s statistics make for grim reading.
Warner, 37, has left fans divided after sensationally declaring that he is available for selection again, starting next month in the first Perth Test.
He apparently played his last Test at the SCG in January against Pakistan after what many felt was a lengthy ‘farewell tour’, but has since indicated that he is keen to face the new ball alongside Usman Khawaja if required.
Since 2015, Warner struggled immensely against India, scoring just 330 runs at a paltry average of 19.41.
His poor performance at the crease gave him just a half-century and, tellingly, 13 sub-20 scores.
The backlash over his retirement backflip prompted respected cricket reporter Peter Lalor to launch a verbal missile in Warner’s direction amid speculation that the polarizing figure will come out of retirement.
Lalor did not mince words SEN Radio on Wednesday.
“I’ve had my head in my hands all morning… this is a drive-by shooting by a guy in a clown car. Go away, David, we’ve had enough, it’s not your time,” Lalor said.
In cricket, numbers rarely lie, and when it comes to David Warner batting against India in recent years, the statistics make for grim reading (Warner is pictured with his wife Candice).
The 37-year-old has angered fans after declaring that he is available for selection again.
Cricket fans were quick to agree with journalist Peter Lalor about X (pictured)
Another supporter felt that Warner’s situation shed a very poor light on the current state of Australia’s batting talent.
Cricket fans were quick to agree with Lalor about X.
“Thank God someone in the world of cricket journalism has questioned this ridiculous statement by Dave Warner,” said one.
Another replied: “If they (selectors) are seriously considering Warner as an option, that is a criticism of our batting stock.”
A third chimed in with: ‘Thank you for reporting this. Incredible behavior by Warner.”
Warner He made his Test debut in 2011 against New Zealand and finished with an average of 44.59 which included 26 centuries.
If the selectors overlook Warner, Victorian Marcus Harris is likely to open the batting with Khawaja.
Other options include Cameron Bancroft, Matthew Renshaw and teenage prodigy Sam Konstas.
Steve Smith will drop in the batting order to four after all-rounder Cameron Green was ruled out for six months after suffering a stress fracture in his lower back that required surgery.
The first Test against India begins on November 22 in Perth.