NEW DELHI: Former Australian opener David Warner is gearing up for a potential return to Test cricket, offering to fill Australia‘s crucial opening slot in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India.
After stepping away from the longest format, Warner has expressed his readiness to make a comeback and provide experience at the top of the order.
Australia’s opening position has faced scrutiny, and Warner’s return could be a timely solution ahead of the high-stakes series.
Known for his aggressive style and extensive experience in Aussie conditions, Warner’s inclusion could bolster the home team’s chances in the challenging five Test matches against India. His availability will certainly add depth to Australia’s lineup.
“I’m always available, just got to pick up the phone,” Warner told Code Sports.
“I’m always dead serious. Honestly, if they really needed myself for this series, I’m more than happy to play the next Shield game and go out there and play,” said Warner while stressing the sincerity of his proposal, rejecting any notion that his statements were intended as a joke or made in a lighthearted manner.
Warner, considered one of Australia’s finest opening batsmen, stepped away from the game earlier this year. Throughout his career, he amassed an impressive 8,786 runs and 26 centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 335.
As the Australian team faces challenges such as Cameron Green‘s injury and Steve Smith‘s return to his usual position at No. 4 after a short stint as an opener, the 37-year-old cricketer suggests that the team may need to re-evaluate their choices for the opening slots.
“I did retire for the right reasons to finish the game, and I wanted to finish. But my hand is up if they desperately need someone. I’m not going to shy away from that,” Warner said, adding that he had cheekily messaged both Australia’s head coach Andrew McDonald and chief selector George Bailey about the situation. “I’ve spoken to Torch (McDonald) and his answer back to me was, ‘you retired,’” Warner laughed. “I don’t think he wants to give me the pleasure of him saying, ‘can you come back?’”