David Warner, having already declared his Test retirement, announced his conclusion from ODIs, expressing intentions to focus on family while keeping possibilities open for participation in other T20 leagues.
Ahead of his final Test match against Pakistan, Australian cricket stalwart David Warner has declared his retirement from ODIs. However, he left a window open for a potential return if needed for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Warner, reflecting on his decision, cited the importance of dedicating time to his family.
“I’ve got to give back to the family and also on the back of that 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. So I’ll make that decision today, to retire from those forms, which does allow me to go and play some other (T20) leagues around the world and sort of get the one-day team moving forward a little bit,” Warner said while addressing a media interaction.
“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,” he added.
Reflecting on his career, Warner expressed no regrets, acknowledging the inevitable hurdles and obstacles that come with it. The opening batter also stressed the value of inspiring young aspiring cricketers to dream of representing Australia.
“Reflecting back on that whole period, my whole career, I’ve got no regrets, because you’re going to have a lot of hurdles that you have to jump. There’s going to be obstacles in the way. But you have to move forward. I’ve done that with dignity. I (wanted to make) sure that I’ve not just gained the respect back, but making sure that I’m putting Australian cricket first,” he said.
“I want every young kid who wants to play cricket to dream to play for Australia and that was really important to me when I came back. I’ve surprised myself at being able to play all three forms as well. It’s been very difficult, especially having three young children come along as well,” Warner added.
Warner retired from Tests and ODIs but will continue playing T20Is for Australia, eyeing the T20 World Cup in June. After his final Test, he plans to join the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. However, if Thunder reaches the final, Warner might miss it as he’s seeking Cricket Australia’s approval to play in the UAE’s ILT20 for Dubai Capitals.
Last Updated on January 1, 2024
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