David Warner spills on IPL heartbreak and how it spurred him on

The lead-up to the T20 World Cup wasn’t particularly kind to David Warner, but he has revealed how his IPL woes spurred him on to a stellar tournament.

David Warner has opened up on the heartbreak of his IPL axing and how it spurred him on to explosive form at the T20 World Cup. Picture: Francois Nel / Getty Images

David Warner has revealed just how painful his IPL anguish was in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup, declaring it actually spurred him on to help the Aussies win the tournament in what was “one of the happiest moments” of his life.

Warner endured a frustrating IPL season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, as he lost the captaincy in May to Kiwi star Kane Williamson, before he was dropped from the side in the second leg of the tournament after just two matches.

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It wasn’t exactly ideal preparation for someone expected to play a pivotal role in Australia’s push for its maiden T20 World Cup title.

The way his IPL season unravelled was particularly upsetting for Warner, having spent seven years with Hyderabad.

“When you are dropped from the team you have loved the most for years without any real fault of yours and stripped of the captaincy without being given a reason, it hurts,” Warner told The Economic Times.

“At the same time, there are no complaints. The fans in India have always been there for me and it is for them that you play.

David Warner picked up the gong for Player of the Tournament. Picture: Isuru Sameera Peiris / Gallo Images

“We play to entertain. We push for excellence.”

Warner emphasised his axing didn’t deter him from doing everything he could to stay fit and firing as the T20 World Cup loomed.

“Whatever may have been the reason for me not finding a spot in an IPL team, I can tell you I was training the hardest I ever did,” Warner said.

“I did not miss a single day.

“I was batting extremely well in the nets and it was only a matter of time before it all started to work out.

“So yes, while it hurt, I knew I would have another opportunity.”

That second chance arrived with the Australians at the World Cup and Warner, one of the most explosive batsmen in all of cricket, grabbed it with both hands.

The 35-year-old averaged 41.28 across the Aussies’ seven matches and was named Player of the Tournament for his freakish form at the top of the order.

Warner could barely hide his emotions after what was a rollercoaster tournament for Justin Langer’s side.

“It is one of the happiest moments of my life,” Warner said.

“Before the tournament started, I had told you that we were ready.

“We had a very good team and every member was determined to leave a mark.

“Thereafter, we peaked at the right time and once we peaked and everyone started doing their part, there was no looking back.

“We have an amazing bunch here and can’t tell you how happy everyone is.”