David Warner on Saturday drew curtains on his 12-year-long Test career after playing the final innings of his career against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The veteran batter scored a match-winning 57 in the second innings as Australia successfully chased down 130 to win the third Test by 8 wickets and whitewash the visitors 3-0.
Warner’s final Test innings was cut short by Sajid Khan who trapped the Aussie opener in front. The Pakistan spinner bowled a back of a length delivery to beat the Aussie opener’s edge and struck him on the back thigh. On-field umpire Michael Gough wasn’t convinced with Khan’s appeal which prompted the visitors to go for DRS.
Ultimately, the on-field call was overturned after ball-tracking returned three reds and Warner made the long walk back to the dressing room. Meanwhile, the Pakistani players came up to him to congratulate him on his illustrious career.
Warner left the field with emotions running through his mind which was visible on his face. He kissed his helmet and had his hands aloft to acknowledge the applause from his home crowd. He shared a hug with Steve Smith who was waiting at the boundary line and while climbing the staircase leading to the dressing, he gave away his helmet and the batting gloves to a young fan in the stands.
A post shared by 7Cricket (@7cricket)
Warner said goodbye to Test cricket after plundering 8,786 runs in 112 games at an average of 44.60, with a strike rate of 70.20, blasting 26 centuries and 37 half-centuries. A larger-than-life character, Warner also collected 91 catches as one of the most consistent slip fielders in cricket.
“It’s pretty much a dream come true to win 3-0 and cap off what has been a great 18 months to two years for the Australian team. I’m just proud to be with a bunch of great cricketers. These guys — they work their backsides off,” Warner said after Australia’s win.
“To come here in front of my home crowd and the support they have shown me and the team over the last decade of my career, I can’t thank them enough,” he added.
(With Agency Inputs)
What's your reaction?
Comments
0 comment