David Warner’s contribution to the Australian cricket team and his phenomenal performances in Test cricket cannot be overstated. With over 100 Test matches under his belt, Warner has established himself as a key player in the team. He stands as one of the rare Australian batsmen to achieve the remarkable feat of scoring a triple century in Test cricket.
As an opener, Warner has been instrumental in providing solid starts for Australia, following in the footsteps of the legendary Matthew Hayden. Known for his aggressive style of play, Warner possesses the ability to score quick centuries, putting the opposition under immense pressure. His attacking approach to batting has not only entertained fans but also delivered crucial runs for the team.
As Warner gears up to play his final Test match next year, the Australian team will undoubtedly miss his explosive batting and the energy he brings to the field. His legacy as one of Australia’s finest opening batsmen in Test cricket will be remembered for years to come. In today’s article, we will discuss his top 3 Test innings, which helped him establish himself as a reliable batter in the longest format of the game.
3. 180 against India in Perth (2012)
During the third Test match of the series between Australia and India, David Warner delivered an astounding batting performance that left a lasting impression. After India’s disappointing innings of 161, with Ben Hilfenhaus taking 4/43, Australia sought to accumulate a commanding total and apply pressure. Warner’s remarkable knock of 180 emerged as the highlight of the match. In just 159 deliveries, Warner showcased his aggressive style, hitting 20 boundaries and five massive sixes at a strike rate of 113.20.
What made his inning even more exceptional was the outstanding 214-run partnership he formed with Ed Cowan (74) at the top of the order. Their collaboration laid a strong foundation for Australia’s final score of 369. India struggled to match Australia’s performance, getting bowled out for a mere 171, with Hilfenhaus claiming four more wickets. The result was a resounding victory for Australia, who won the Test by an innings and 37 runs.
2. 200 against South Africa in the MCG (2022)
In a historic and awe-inspiring display, David Warner showcased his brilliance in his 100th Test match for Australia at the MCG in 2022. The day witnessed a scintillating performance by Warner, who retired hurt after a magnificent double century, leaving spectators emotionally moved. Under the blazing Melbourne sun, South Africa struggled to contain Australia’s dominance as they reached 386 for three at stumps, holding a commanding lead of 197 runs.
Warner, who had been searching for a century for nearly three years, fought his way through exhaustion to achieve his third double hundred. His remarkable innings of 200 runs came off just 254 deliveries, a testament to his exceptional batting prowess. Notably, Warner became the first Australian player to score a double century in his 100th Test, etching his name into cricketing history. However, despite his outstanding performance, Warner succumbed to cramps and was forced to retire hurt, leaving the field with the assistance of a trainer.
1. 145 against India in Adelaide Oval (2014)
In a highly emotional match at the Adelaide Oval in 2014, David Warner showcased an amazing batting performance against India. The Australian team was still reeling from the tragic death of Phillip Hughes, and just 12 days after the heartbreaking incident, they returned to the field. Opening the inning, Warner wasted no time in making an impact. He blazed his way to 28 runs off just 13 balls, smashing five boundaries in the process.
As he surpassed 50, he looked towards the heavens, a tribute to his late teammate Hughes, whose score of 63 would forever be associated with him. In the second session, Warner reached a century, prompting his trademark leap and a glance skyward, followed by an embrace from his captain, Michael Clarke. Warner’s remarkable inning saw him score 145 runs at a strike rate of 88.95. The Test match was closely contested, with Australia eventually securing victory by 48 runs. Warner’s contribution was pivotal, as he also scored another century in the second inning, solidifying his role as the savior of the team.