Retired Australian opener David Warner has offered to open for the national team in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series. The left-handed batsman has informed the selectors that he is available if needed and is prepared to participate in the next Sheffield Shield match.
The New South Wales opener concluded his international career after Australia’s exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. His final Test match for Australia was earlier this year against Pakistan in Sydney, and he retired as one of the team’s top openers. However, Australia has not yet settled on a replacement since his retirement.
In an interview with News Corp, the veteran mentioned that he is preparing for the Test series at the same level as the other players. Therefore, he expressed no hesitation about taking part in a Sheffield Shield match. He stated:
“I’m always available, just got to pick up the phone. I’m always dead serious. Let’s be honest, the guys have played one red ball game (first round of the shield) since their last Test matches in February, so I’ve almost had the same preparation.”
“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. 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.”
Players like Sam Konstas, Marcus Harris, and Cameron Bancroft have demonstrated potential for the opening position, but their recent performances in the domestic circuit have not been convincing.
“Konstas can certainly develop into a long-term opening batsman over time”- David Warner
Warner shared his views on Australia’s batting order, indicating that Cameron Green’s absence could pose challenges for the team. He also mentioned Konstas as a potential long-term opener.
“My take on it is I liked what they were thinking last year with the fact Greeny is in their best top six. It doesn’t necessarily have to be an opener. I think you can have someone else that can come in and bat three and Marnus could open.”
“Konstas can definitely in time be that long-term opening batsman … and look there is every opportunity for him there to potentially do that, but I think you still have to see a little bit more.”
The five-Test series against India is set to start on November 22 in Perth.
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