As Australia prepares to enter its first Ashes series in 12 years without David Warner, a former Test skipper says it’s time the former opener was thanked for his work against the new ball. With Jake Weatherald set to debut in the first Test in Perth, the Aussies will have used six different openers since Warner stepped away from international duties almost two years ago.
Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Sam Konstas and Travis Head have all partnered Usman Khawaja in a revolving door of selections that has left the top order fragile. Going into the one of the most anticipated Ashes series in recent history, that vulnerability against England’s pace attack could prove fatal.
Jake Weatherald (far right) is set to debut in the first Ashes Test – the sixth opener to be used after David Warner’s retirement (L). Image: Getty
Warner played 33 Tests against England across 10 years and seven series, scoring 2173 runs at 36.83. He was at his most dangerous on home soil, where that average climbed to 51.54.
Yahoo Sport Australia predicted at the time of Warner’s departure: “You may not like him, you may question his moral compass and you may be counting the minutes until he’s out the door of the Australian Test team.
“But what’s the bet those who claim they’ll be happy to see the back of Warner are pining for him in 12 months’ time. There is one inescapable truth about David Warner – you will miss him when he’s gone.”
David Warner after his final Test match for Australia. (Photo by Jason McCawley – CA/Cricket Australia via Getty Images)
Ian Chappell says Aussies should be thanking David Warner
Former Australia skipper Ian Chappell took it a step further on Wide World of Sports this week, declaring those who played with Warner are in his debt. “Have any of the Australian players said we’re really disappointed that Dave Warner is gone?” Chappell asked.
“Because the loss of David Warner has been great in the Australian cricket team. It’s made a huge difference. Warner made things so much easier for you. Not only for his partner, but all the blokes who came behind him.
“If you’ve got someone like Warner, who has the skill and guts to (score quickly) against the new ball, it is amazing. When Warner comes in, they start spreading the field and half the time the captains forget to put the fielders back for the other player. So, it’s making it easier for the guy down the other end. They should be saying thank you to David Warner for the job that he did.”
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Weatherald is a player who likes to take the game on but won’t fall into the trap of attempting to bat like a Warner clone. He said: “I feel adaptable. I don’t feel like a one-gear player. If I have to lock in and bat a day and score 50 runs, because that’s the best thing for the team in the conditions, then that’s what I’ll do. But if the opportunity is there (to attack), I’ll definitely take it.”
Australia’s likely XI for first Ashes Test revealed
The Aussies have reportedly decided to hand Weatherald his Test debut to open the batting alongside Khawaja. The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that Marnus Labuschagne will make his return to the Test team and bat at No.3, with Cameron Green likely to be included at No.6 ahead of Beau Webster.
Brendan Doggett will also reportedly make his Test debut in place of the injured Josh Hazlewood. The likely XI for Friday’s first Test: