Retired Australian cricketer David Warner has clarified that his recent comments about being “available” for a return to international cricket were taken out of context. The former left-handed batter explained that he would only come out of retirement if contacted by the selectors.
In an interview with News Corp last month, Warner had mentioned he was open to playing in the upcoming Test series against India, should the selectors reach out to him. However, both Australia‘s chief selector and head coach Andrew McDonald have not entertained the possibility of bringing him back.
Addressing the issue on Fox Cricket during the first ODI between Australia and Pakistan, Warner reiterated that his statement was merely suggesting he wouldn’t reject a call-up, but did not indicate a formal comeback.
“My comment was only if my phone rang and they called me and if they asked, 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?” he said.
Following Warner’s retirement, Australia had Steve Smith open the batting, a position he filled during the series against the West Indies and New Zealand. However, Smith will return to the No. 4 spot after struggling to make an impact in the opening role.
“They haven’t posted the required numbers”- David Warner commented on Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft
Warner believes Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft, both contenders for an opener’s spot, have technical flaws. He thinks Bancroft will struggle against bowlers who generate more movement in the air.
He further stated (via the aforementioned interview):
“We know what Marcus Harris and Cameron Bancroft bring to the table. They have been around. Unfortunately, they haven’t put the numbers on the board. With both, I think they are still making the same mistakes. There is no air speed at the moment in Shield cricket and, unfortunately, you are playing at venues as well that don’t bounce.”
“With Cameron Bancroft, his foot is still out to point. If someone is bowling 140, 145km/h, he is still going to make the same mistakes.”
“In my eyes, it’s about his front foot being pointed out to point, and when there is faster air speed, so the bowlers are bowling faster, he is going to get rolled through LBW or get caught in the slips cordon. And he had that trouble when playing for Australia,” he added.
The opening Test between India and Australia will start on November 22.
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