Australian batting legend David Warner has announced his retirement from international cricket but with a twist. While he considers his international career a “closed chapter,” he expressed interest in playing in the ICC Champions Trophy next year if selected.
Warner’s illustrious international career spanned all three formats. He retired from ODIs after Australia’s triumphant World Cup campaign in November 2023, with his final Test appearance coming against Pakistan in January this year. His T20I swansong was during the recently concluded global showpiece against India on June 24th.
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Taking to Instagram on Monday, Warner penned a heartfelt message reflecting on his journey. “Chapter closed!! It’s been an unbelievable experience to play at the highest level for such a long period,” he wrote. “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.”
However, Warner isn’t quite hanging up his bat entirely. David Warner added, “I will continue to play franchise cricket for a while, and I am also open to playing for Australia in the Champions Trophy if selected.” This isn’t the first time Warner has shown his interest in the 50-over tournament. Back in January, when he announced his retirement from ODIs and Tests, he hinted at his availability for the Champions Trophy, which is scheduled to return to Pakistan in 2025 after an eight-year hiatus.
Australian ODI captain Pat Cummins, while acknowledging Warner’s potential return for the Champions Trophy, had previously described it as an “emergency option.” In January, Cummins stated, “I think it’s probably time to give some others a crack (in ODIs), but knowing that he’s going to still be playing cricket.” He continued, “So it might be more of a kind of break glass in an emergency option. But, you know, David is going to be scoring runs somewhere in the world. So you never quite know that this is (the end).”
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Warner’s retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. He leaves behind a legacy as the country’s highest scorer and the world’s seventh-most prolific batsman in T20Is, with a staggering 3,277 runs from 110 matches at an impressive average of 33.43 and a strike rate of 142.47.
In a message filled with gratitude, Warner thanked his family, fans, and teammates. He acknowledged the unwavering support of his wife and daughters, expressing, “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.”
Looking back at his remarkable journey, Warner highlighted his impact on the game, particularly in Test cricket. “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.”
David Warner continued his message of appreciation, thanking everyone who contributed to his success. “To the players and staff, thanks for putting up with me. No more WhatsApp junk, your ears are now going to be free of my voice. This team has had unbelievable success the last few years and long may this continue. Pat Cummins, Andrew McDonald and staff have got this,” he concluded.
David Warner’s retirement leaves a significant void in Australian cricket. However, with the possibility of him returning for the Champions Trophy, fans can hold onto a sliver of hope to see the explosive batsman back in national colours.