The selectors deserve a pat on the back for sticking with David Warner. His good moments in Test cricket may have been few and far between over the past couple of years, but they pick him for the devastating player he can be.

And in the space of a few hours he set up not only the Test match but the series for Australia. Warner’s rapid 164, which started with his first 50 taking just 41 balls, broke the back of Pakistan by intimidating an inexperienced attack.

The selectors have made some brave decisions in recent times, and supporting David was brave because the numbers weren’t demanding he be selected.

They stuck with him, but they didn’t actually say that you’re absolutely in for Sydney. So he knew he needed to make a score.

The only danger would have been if he missed out twice and Australia had lost. That would have made things awkward for everybody, mostly the selectors.

But it was typical David Warner. Once he and Usman Khawaja got through the new ball, David’s just dynamite because he scores so quickly. Everyone felt by about tea time on day one that Australia was going to win the Test.

And while David set up the match, Australia’s premier attack finished it in fine style, bowling Pakistan out for only 89 in their second innings.

While Perth has a reputation for favouring pace, Nathan Lyon has a terrific record at the Perth Stadium. He finished with five wickets and along the way became rightly celebrated as the third Australian to achieve 500 Test wickets.

David Warner gives a tradmark leap and sends a message to his detractors on reaching 100 against Pakistan.Credit: Getty

QOSHE - Oh, what a feeling: Selectors don’t always get it right, but Warner gave them just what they wanted - Mark Taylor
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Oh, what a feeling: Selectors don’t always get it right, but Warner gave them just what they wanted

8 16
25.12.2023

The selectors deserve a pat on the back for sticking with David Warner. His good moments in Test cricket may have been few and far between over the past couple of years, but they pick him for the devastating player he can be.

And in the space of a few hours he set up not only the Test match but the series for Australia. Warner’s rapid 164, which started with his first 50 taking just 41 balls, broke the........

© The Sydney Morning Herald


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