- David Warner has left fans furious with retirement U-turn
- Offered to line up for Australia in Test series vs India
In cricket, numbers rarely lie – and when it comes to David Warner batting against India in recent years, the ‘retired’ star’s statistics make for grim reading.
Warner, 37, has left fans divided after sensationally declaring he is again available for selection, starting next month in the first Test from Perth.
He seemingly played his final Test at the SCG in January against Pakistan after what many felt was a prolonged ‘farewell tour’- but has since indicated he is keen to face the new ball alongside Usman Khawaja if required.
Dating back to 2015, Warner struggled immensely against India, scoring just 330 runs at a paltry average of 19.41.
His poor return at the crease yielded just one half century – and tellingly, 13 scores under 20.
The backlash over his retirement backflip prompted respected cricket reporter Peter Lalor launched a verbal missile in Warner’s direction amid speculation the polarising figure will come out of retirement.
Lalor didn’t mince his words on SEN Radio on Wednesday.
‘I’ve had my head in my hands all morning … this is a drive-by shooting from a bloke in a clown car. Go away, David, we’ve had enough, it’s not your time,’ Lalor said.
In cricket, numbers rarely lie – and when it comes to David Warner batting against India in recent years, the statistics make for grim reading (Warner is pictured with wife Candice)
The 37-year-old has left fans furious after declaring he is again available for selection
It didn’t long for cricket supporters to agree with journalist Peter Lalor on X (pictured)
Another supporter felt the Warner situation cast the current state of Australia’s batting talent in a very poor light
It didn’t long for cricket supporters to agree with Lalor on X.
‘Thank goodness someone in the cricket journalism world has questioned this ridiculous statement from Dave Warner,’ one said.
Another responded with: ‘If they [selectors] are seriously considering Warner as an option, that’s an indictment on our batting stocks.’
A third weighed in with: ‘Thank you for calling this out. Unbelievable behaviour from Warner.’
Warner made his Test debut in 2011 against New Zealand and finished with an average of 44.59 which included 26 centuries.
If selectors overlook Warner, Victorian Marcus Harris is likely to open the batting with Khawaja.
Other options include Cameron Bancroft, Matthew Renshaw and teenage prodigy Sam Konstas.
Steve Smith will move down the order to bat at four after all-rounder Cameron Green was ruled out for six months after sustaining a stress fracture in his lower back that requires surgery.
The first Test against India begins on November 22 in Perth.
