(Source X)
David Warner, after more than a decade representing Australia at the highest level of cricket, officially bid farewell to international cricket on Monday. His illustrious journey in the international arena concluded last month following Australia’s unexpected defeat to Afghanistan in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Earlier this year, Warner had already announced his retirement from Test and ODI cricket, marking his final appearances in those formats during the World Cup final against India and the Sydney Test against Pakistan, respectively. Despite stepping away from longer formats, he continued to contribute in T20s until his last game for Australia in the format just last month.
Taking to Instagram, Warner reflected on his career, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country in over 100 matches across all formats. He extended heartfelt thanks to his family, fans, and supporters who stood by him throughout his journey.
“Chapter closed!! It’s been an unbelievable experience to play at the highest level for such a long period. Australia was my team. The majority of my career was at the international level. It’s been an honour to be able to do this. 100+ games in all formats is my highlight,” wrote David Warner.
“I want to say thanks to everyone out there who has made this possible. My wife and my girls, who sacrificed so much, thank you for all your support. No person will ever know what we’ve been through.
“For all the cricket fans out there, I truly hope I have entertained you and changed cricket, especially tests, in a way where we scored a bit faster than others 😂😂. We cannot do what we love without the fans, so thanks,” he added.
David Warner available for Champions Trophy:
David Warner has officially announced his retirement from international cricket, but he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of representing Australia in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy. The left-handed batsman indicated his willingness to participate in the tournament if chosen to do so. Scheduled for February next year in Pakistan, the Champions Trophy remains a potential stage for Warner to showcase his skills for his country once more.
In addition to his openness towards the Champions Trophy, Warner mentioned his intention to continue playing franchise cricket for the foreseeable future. This decision allows him to remain active in the sport while exploring new opportunities beyond the international arena.
“I will continue to play franchise cricket for a while, and I am also open to playing for Aus in the Champions trophy if selected,” wrote David Warner.
Warner played a pivotal role in Australia’s triumph in the ODI World Cup held in India last year. Emerging as the team’s top scorer, he amassed 535 runs in 11 matches, including two centuries and as many half-centuries. His impressive performance in similar conditions sets the stage for Australia to consider including him in their squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy.
Making his international debut for Australia in 2009 without prior experience in first-class or List-A cricket, Warner initially specialized in T20Is before evolving into a linchpin across all formats.
Throughout his distinguished career, Warner featured in 112 Tests, 161 ODIs, and 110 T20Is, amassing a total of over 18,000 runs, comprising 49 centuries and 98 half-centuries. His contribution has been integral to Australia’s success on the global stage over more than a decade.
