Edited by Deepali Verma
Star opener of Australia David Warner had his sparkling Test career come to a conclusion on January 5 at his home stadium with an eight-wicket triumph against Pakistan, capping off a 3-0 series whitewash.
An emotional Warner, engaged with the host broadcaster after the game, in a goodbye interview about his Test career, watching the Australia Tests on TV in the future, the role his family played and how he would like to be remembered. Warner expressed praises for his teammates, saying it is a pride to be among such outstanding cricketers.
“It’s like a dream come true. You win by 3-0 and end what’s been a great 18 months to 2 years for the Australian cricket team. World Test Championship win, Ashes series draw and the subsequent World Cup as well. I’m proud to have played with a bunch of great cricketers here,” Warner remarked during a post-match presentation.
“These guys work their backsides off, the engine room – the three big quicks along with Mitchell Marsh – they work tirelessly in both the nets and the gym. Much credit to them, the physios, the staff behind that is outstanding.”
Warner’s Test career covered an overall 112 matches, during which he scored a total of 8,786 runs at an average of 44.60, including 26 hundreds and 37 half-centuries.
“Exciting and entertaining, I hope I put a smile on everyone’s face with the way I played. Hopefully, the young kids out there can follow my journey through white ball cricket to Test cricket, it’s the pinnacle of our sport. So keep working hard and take part in the red ball game which is entertaining as well. Thanks, everyone,” he added.
Warner, to express gratitude, chose himself and hailed his wife Candice for her unwavering support following the third and final Test against Shan Masood’s Pakistan. The veteran opener also was grateful to his parents and his brother, Steve, for being the guiding lights in his profession over the last 12 years.
“Massive part of your life is your parents. Without their support, it’s not possible to do what you do. All credits to my parents for giving me a beautiful and great upbringing. I followed in my brother Steve’s footsteps and then came along Candice and sort of got me in line. We’ve had a beautiful family and I cherish every moment that I get with them. Thank you Candice for what you’ve done, you mean the world to me and I appreciate it,” Warner expressed.
