David Warner just happy to play his part after “dark year for Australian cricket”

After his third man-of-the-match award in six World Cup outings, David Warner painted himself content just to be playing his part for the team after “a dark year for Australian cricket”.

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David Warner wants to be remembered as “an Australian cricketer who gave 110 per cent”, with the explosive batsman vowing to make up for the runs lost during his 12-month suspension.

The upbeat opener has shed ‘The Bull’ nickname, which evolved into ‘The Reverend’, and said teammates were now calling him ‘Humble’ after a third man-of-the-match performance in six World Cup games.

David Warner struck 166 to form the platform for Australia’s victory over Bangladesh.

Warner drew level with Adam Gilchrist on 16 ODI tons after his masterful 166 (147) buried Bangladesh and effectively locked Australia into yet another World Cup semi-final.

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The tournament’s top four teams are all but confirmed with 19 group matches still to be played with Australia, New Zealand, England and India breaking clear of the pack.

India sits two points plus net run-rate ahead of fifth-placed Bangladesh and also has two games in hand.

Asked how he wanted to be remembered after a year from hell, Warner said: “Just as an Australian cricket player.

“I’m just so grateful for being able to have the opportunity to play for Australia and to be in the same sentence as Adam Gilchrist is fantastic and it’s overwhelming.

“He’s a bit more of a dasher than what I am at the top of the order.

Warner sits top of the World Cup scoring charts with three man-of-the-match awards, too.

“But for me, it’s just about going out there and to give my best, to be honest, and that’s all I want to be remembered for, is someone who gives 110 per cent when I go out in the field and be myself.”

Australia travel to London on Friday, where Warner’s wife Candice will give birth after next week’s match against New Zealand at Lord’s.

“It’s exciting for myself and my family. But my main focus is making sure that my wife is fine and she’s comfortable,” Warner said.

“I won’t let that distract me from my goal, and that’s to come out here and keep scoring as many runs as I can.”

Warner said that spearing Australia to a 5-1 was rewarding after “a dark year for Australian cricket”. He now owns four out of Australia’s biggest eight ODI knocks, including the two biggest at a World Cup.

Warner, 32, again referenced his new-found batting maturity after surviving 44 overs against the Tigers.

His century at Trent Bridge drew Warner level with Adam Gilchrist for ODI tons for Australia.

Warner said he feels “a lot fresher” after his break and the words were supported by his beaming smile and friendly nature since returning to Australian cricket 50 days ago.

“I’ve worked hard on my own fitness,” he said.

“You hardly get a couple weeks off (usually).

“It’s just the little things like being on time for buses, for aeroplanes, packing your bags, travelling a lot, with the World Cup you’re in and out of hotels. Those basic things there.

“You just let your mind be at ease (when not playing), and to have time at home as well with my family was awesome and I really enjoyed that.”