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Australia are still in a position of uncertainty when it comes to finding a suitable replacement for Warner.
David Warner has been one of the finest opening batters of the current generation. (Image: AFP)
The former Australian opening batter, David Warner clarified his comments regarding making a return to Test cricket for Australia’s upcoming five-match Test series against Australia for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Australia are still in a position of uncertainty when it comes to finding a suitable replacement for Warner. Surprisingly, Steve Smith wanted to take responsibility up the order, but the experiment did not live up to expectations.
Ahead of the India series, Australia had also mentioned that Smith would go back down to number four in the batting order, leaving questions being asked on who would be the designated opening batter to partner Usman Khawaja.
Warner who was on commentary duty for the 1st ODI between Australia and Pakistan, explained what he tried to say.
He was quoted by Indian Express saying, “My comment was only if my phone rang and they called me and if they asked. (In that case) you’re not going to say no. You’re not going to turn down a game for Australia. I think a lot of it got taken out of context by some people but it is what it is. If I was to get a call, why wouldn’t I say yes?”
Warner took part in 112 Tests scoring 8786 runs at an average of 44.59. He had called time on his Test career following the home series against Pakistan with his final Test having taken place at the Sydney Cricket Ground, in January 2024.
Many names have been tipped for the opening batter’s role. This includes the likes of Cameron Bancroft, Sam Konstsas, Nathan McSweeney, Marcus Harris and others, but it is yet to be confirmed who would take up the role.
Australia will be keen on enforcing revenge against India as it has been 10 years since the Aussies last won the Border-Gavaskar series. Cummins and Co will look to get a series win over India to also confirm their spot in the World Test Championship (2023-25) final, a position that India is in the running for as well.
The series will begin with the first Test being played at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22.
