(Image Source: AP)
[Saba Sports News] Greg Chappell, the former Australian captain, has highly praised opener David Warner as he approaches his final Test match. Warner, set to retire following the current Pakistan Test series, will play his last Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, a venue dear to him.
Chappell extolled Warner as the second most explosive opener of recent times, only behind India’s Virender Sehwag. With an impressive strike rate of 70.3, Warner has accumulated 8695 runs in 111 Test matches. Chappell acknowledged Warner’s significant role in Australian cricket, despite the blemish of the ‘Sandpaper Gate’ scandal.
In his column for the Sydney Morning Herald, Chappell stated, “David’s legacy in Australian cricket is remarkable. Though he can’t escape the ‘Sandpaper Gate’ incident, his contributions are undeniable. He’s only second to Virender Sehwag in terms of being a destructive opener in the modern era.”
Chappell emphasized the value of a destructive opener, urging selectors to find a successor with similar qualities to maintain Australia’s edge. “The impact of such an opener is huge, and it’s crucial for the selectors to find someone of Warner’s caliber to preserve this advantage,” he added.
Warner began the Pakistan series with an outstanding 164, helping Australia gain the upper hand. Despite a less impactful second Test, Warner is determined to end his Test career on a positive note. This desire comes amidst a public disagreement with Mitchell Johnson, who criticized Cricket Australia for allowing Warner a farewell Test without a public apology for his involvement in the Sandpaper Gate scandal. However, Chappell defended the decision, highlighting Warner’s positive influence on Australian cricket.
Chappell hopes for a warm send-off for Warner in Sydney, acknowledging his exceptional dedication, energy, professionalism, and competitive spirit over his 111 Test matches. He wrote, “David Warner deserves recognition for his immense contribution and talent. Despite his flaws, his passion and energy in every game have been extraordinary. I hope Sydney gives him a deserving farewell.”