Australian opener David Warner removed cheaply as ‘huge gamble’ backfired

National selectors gambled on David Warner, hoping he would resurrect the Australian top order, a decision which immediately backfired.

David Warner of Australia walks off the field after been dismissed by Mohammed Siraj.

National selectors gambled on David Warner, hoping he would resurrect the Australian top order, a decision which immediately backfired at the SCG.

Warner only survived eight deliveries in the first innings of the New Year’s Test, with many pundits questioning if rushing him into the starting XI was a wise decision.

Although he was still recovering from a groin strain sustained during the one-day series, Warner was named in Australia’s starting XI alongside debutant Will Pucovski.

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The 34-year-old admitted this week he would not be at 100 per cent for the Sydney Test, but selectors were desperate for an experienced opening batsman after no Australian passed fifty at the MCG last week.

David Warner of Australia.

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Warner’s discomfort was immediately evident on Thursday morning, with the left-hander grimacing after completing a quick single.

He’s renowned as one of the fastest runners between the wicket, but the explosive opener “laboured” through for his runs at the SCG.

Cricket reporter Sam Ferris posted: “David Warner not looking comfortable sprinting for that quick single. Time to deal in boundaries?”

Former Australian spinner Kerry O’Keeffe said on Fox Cricket: “The red flag went up when he took that single, the last 10 metres he really laboured and he’s far less than 100 per cent fit.”

David Warner is on the podium of the best runners between the wicket. Looking forward to him moving like my nan did with a zimmer frame.

— Jarrod Kimber (@ajarrodkimber) January 6, 2021

His feet did not move Bec he isn’t 100 percent fit. Huge gamble from Aus doesn’t pay off. Warner’s Running was proof he is still not ready and India have the big wicket early. Superb from Siraj to go wide. #AUSvIND

— Boria Majumdar (@BoriaMajumdar) January 6, 2021

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Then in the fourth over, Indian seamer Mohammed Siraj removed Warner with a length delivery outside off.

The Australian opener played a loose stroke without any footwork, and edged the delivery through to Cheteshwar Pujara in the slip cordon.

Former Australian batsman Michael Hussey said on Fox Cricket: “What a start for India, it’s a huge wicket … perfect start for India.”

Indian great Sunil Gavaskar said on Channel 7: “It’s a poor shot … not a good shot and a good catch that by Cheteshwar Pujara.”

Warner’s departure left Australian in early trouble at 1/6, and Marnus Labuschagne partnered with Pucovski before rain halted play at the SCG.