The cricketing world is buzzing with anticipation and controversy as David Warner, the linchpin opener of Australia, gears up for what he wishes to be his final Test series against Pakistan in Sydney next month. However, former teammate Mitchell Johnson has launched a scathing critique, questioning the validity of Warner’s self-nominated farewell.
David Warner has undeniably been Australia’s linchpin opener for over a decade, contributing significantly to their cricketing triumphs, including a key role in the World Cup victory.
However, when examining Warner’s recent Test performance, the narrative takes a twist. Over his last 25 Tests, he has averaged 28.9, with only one century – a double ton. This downturn in form raises questions about the timing of his retirement announcement.
Mitchell Johnson, a former fast bowler who played 26 Tests alongside Warner, has not minced words in expressing his opinion. He points to Warner’s unresolved association with the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, stating that Warner has never truly owned up to it.
Johnson’s column in The West Australian criticizes Warner’s approach to his retirement. He accuses the veteran opener of displaying arrogance and disrespect toward the country, questioning why a struggling Test player gets to dictate his farewell.
Johnson wrote: “It’s been five years and David Warner has still never really owned the ball-tampering scandal. He has a decent overall record and some say is one of our greatest opening bats. But his past three years in Test cricket have been ordinary, with a batting average closer to what a tailender would be happy with. Now the way he is going out is underpinned by more of the same arrogance and disrespect to our country. As we prepare for David Warner’s farewell series, can somebody please tell me why? Why a struggling Test opener gets to nominate his own retirement date. And why a player at the centre of one of the biggest scandals in Australian cricket history warrants a hero’s send-off?”
Johnson doesn’t spare Australia’s selectors either. He specifically targets George Bailey, the chief selector, suggesting that Bailey’s proximity to some players, including Warner, might cloud his judgment.
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“The handling of Warner in recent years, who played with Bailey in all three forms, raises the question of whether Bailey was simply too quickly out of playing and into the job and too close to some of the players,” Johnson added.
In response to Johnson’s criticism, George Bailey defended Warner’s inclusion in the squad, emphasizing that they believe Warner is still among the best 11 players to win the first Test.
Responding to Johnson’s critique, Bailey told a press conference: “Ultimately, we still think (Warner) is in our best 11 players to win the first Test.”
The selectors’ perspective sheds light on the delicate balance between sentiment and performance. Warner’s legacy and contributions to Australian cricket weigh against his recent struggles in Test cricket.
Warner’s self-nomination for retirement raises eyebrows, especially given the controversial circumstances surrounding the end of his Test career.
