‘Always available’ – David Warner ready to come out of retirment for Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Legendary Australian opener David Warner has expressed his desire to come out of retirement for the upcoming five-Test series against India.

Warner, who bid farewell to Test cricket against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January, has shown his interest in once again wearing the ‘Baggy Green’, as Australia struggles to find a suitable opening partner for Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith struggling to find form in the opening slot.

As an opener, Smith has managed to score only 171 runs at an average of 28.50 in eight innings. This has prompted the selection committee, led by George Bailey, to confirm Smith’s return to his number four position.

“I am always available, just got to pick up the phone. I am always deadly serious. Let’s be honest, the guys have played one red-ball game since their last Test matches in February, so I’ve almost had the same preparation. Honestly, if they needed me for this series, I’m more than happy to play the next Shield game and go out there and play,” Warner told Code Sports.

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My hand is up if they desperately need someone: David Warner

The situation has become more tough for the side with Cameron Green’s absence due to a stress fracture, limiting Australia’s options further. While the selectors are considering young talents like 19-year-old Sam Konstas and the experienced Marcus Harris, Warner’s optimism opens the door for discussion.

The southpaw’s record as an opener is nothing short of brilliance, with 8747 Test runs at an average of 45.08, including 26 centuries. “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. I’m not going to shy away from that, he said.