David Warner. (Photo Source: X(Twitter)
In a surprising turn of events, Australian cricket stalwart David Warner has declared his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs), alongside his upcoming exit from Test cricket after the New Year’s Test against Pakistan in Sydney.
Speaking at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Monday, the 37-year-old, who recently clinched his second 50-over World Cup, revealed that he was going to retire from the one-day cricket (ODI format) as well. Besides, he also called winning the biggest mega event of the 50-over format in India by beating them in their backyard a massive feat.
“I’m definitely retiring from one-day cricket as well. That was something that I had said through the World Cup, get through that, and winning it in India, I think that’s a massive achievement.” Warner said as quoted by Cricbuzz.
Warner expressed his satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing the importance of the World Cup win in India. “It was a decision that I was very, very comfortable with. To win in India, from where we were, was absolutely amazing,” he stated.
If I’m playing decent cricket in two years’ time, I’m going to be available: Warner
Interestingly enough, even after bidding adieu to ODIs, David Warner hasn’t entirely closed the door on representing Australia in the 2025 Champions Trophy, contingent on form and fitness. He asserted that he may still play for his country in another coveted event named the Champions Trophy if he is still in his good mojo. If that happens he will surely make himself available for Australia.
“So I’ll make that decision today, to retire from those forms, which does allow me to go and play some other leagues around the world and sort of get the one-day team moving forward a little bit. I know there’s a Champions Trophy coming up. If I’m playing decent cricket in two years’ time and I’m around and they need someone, I’m going to be available,” Warner concluded.
This move concludes Warner’s illustrious career as Australia’s sixth-highest run-scorer in ODIs, amassing 6932 runs from 161 matches at an impressive average of 45.30. His 22 centuries in the format stand second only to Ricky Ponting’s 29, making him one of Australia’s most prolific ODI batters.
However, David Warner remains committed to the shortest format and is on the cusp of achieving a significant milestone – 100 appearances in all three formats of the game. Additionally, he eyes participation in franchise T20 leagues, with his next outing expected at the ILT20 with the Dubai Capitals.
Notably, Warner is going to play his last Test of the ongoing series for Australia in baggy greens in Sydney against Pakistan. As the Southpaw bids farewell to ODIs as well, cricket enthusiasts anticipate his continued impact in the T20 arena and the possibility of his return for the Champions Trophy in 2025, adding another layer to the seasoned cricketer’s dynamic career.