David Warner, the Australian opening batsman, announced his retirement from international cricket after Afghanistan defeated Bangladesh in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 on Tuesday, resulting in the elimination of the Australian team from the competition. Afghanistan’s recent triumph in the Super 8 stage of the tournament has resulted in Australia’s departure, thus sealing a quiet farewell for Warner.
In 110 T20I innings, the 37-year-old opening batsman accumulated 3,277 runs, which consisted of one century and 28 half-centuries, at an impressive strike-rate of 142.47. He had already declared that the T20 World Cup 2024 would be his final competition. He played his last ODI in the World Cup final against India in November, and his final Test match came against Pakistan in January.
David Warner quietly retires from international cricket
Prior to the Afghanistan versus Bangladesh match, fast bowler Josh Hazlewood had indicated that the date of Warner’s departure from his colleagues will be determined by the outcome of the aforementioned match.
“No statements have been made yet,” Hazlewood stated. “Although it could be mentioned prior to the evening game, we will opt to wait until after the game to recognize the noteworthy career.” It has been incredible. We will certainly feel his absence among the group, both on and off the field, as he concludes his remarkable career across all formats.
Regarding Warner’s departure, Hazlewood remarked, “We have experienced a small glimpse of it.” The popularity of Test cricket, ODI cricket, and now T20 has gradually increased over time. In New Zealand, we have somewhat adapted to life without him. It is usually a distinct experience when you lose a player who has been present for a significant duration of time. However, we will continue and make progress.
Prior to Australia’s elimination from the World Cup, Travis Head, Warner’s batting partner, expressed that it would be a “disappointing” way for Warner’s career to come to an end.
“We would feel let down if the outcome were to conclude in such a manner, necessitating our attendance at another match.” There has been extensive discussion about his contributions to Australian cricket as an opening batsman in all formats,” Head stated.
“He is recognized as our most accomplished player across multiple formats.” His absence from the top of the batting lineup will be regretted, but we should remain optimistic that tonight’s event does not mark its conclusion. If the situation arises, we will wait and observe, and if it does, we will bid him farewell tonight. The duration of the fixture may be extended if it concludes in the same manner as it has been progressing. However, much praise has been given to Davey’s exceptional performance at the top of the batting lineup.
