DHARAMSALA: Australian opener David Warner is basking in his resurgent World Cup form, quelling the skeptics and defying doubters who had written him off. With two centuries in his last three outings, Warner currently stands as the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, amassing 413 runs at a remarkable average of 68.83, just trailing behind Quinton de Kock with 431 runs.
The 37-year-old left-hander recently celebrated his birthday and is determined to make every opportunity count. “Everyone keeps writing me off,” Warner remarked, “I’m doing as well as I can, I’m just trying to go out there and start as well as I can up front in the first 10 [overs]. If I get in, I try and make the most of it. It’s also awesome to have Heady [Travis Head] and Mitch [Marsh] there as well because it allows that pressure to keep being put back onto the opposition.”
When asked about his motivation to silence the doubters, Warner responded with confidence, stating, “Nup. I just make everyone look stupid.”
Warner, in partnership with Head, orchestrated an impressive opening stand of 175 against New Zealand, with Head’s aggressive approach earning him the nickname ‘Chaos’ from his teammates. Warner praised Head’s attacking style, emphasizing its impact in building pressure on the bowlers and subsequently affording him the chance to capitalize on loose deliveries. “We are gelling really well together,” Warner affirmed.
Australia has undergone a notable resurgence, currently occupying the fourth position in the standings, courtesy of four consecutive victories. The top four teams at the culmination of the round-robin phase secure a spot in the semi-finals.
On the other hand, defending champions England find themselves languishing at the bottom of the table, with slim chances of advancing further in the tournament after suffering their fifth defeat to hosts India. While Warner acknowledged it would be satisfying to add to England’s woes, he cautioned against underestimating the beleaguered team, noting that they can be most unpredictable when there is little left to lose.
