David Warner is all about timing. Even in retirement.
Few are able to play sport on their own terms. David Warner did. Yes, he has many detractors and they often tried to pull him down. But today at 111 Tests and 6932 ODI runs, Warner can look back at his legacy and feel proud. He announced retirement on his terms and leaves ODI cricket a World Cup winner, freeing himself up to play the cash-rich global T20 leagues in India and other countries.
From being told he can’t play Test cricket to he can’t make a comeback post the “Sandpapergate” controversy, Warner has been written off far too many times. And each time someone has done so, he has stormed back with performances to show for. His bat and athleticism defined him and 111 Test matches stand evidence to a career unrivalled.
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David Warner announces retirement from ODI format, keeps door open for Champions Trophy!@ThumsUpOfficial @davidwarner31 #DavidWarner #DavidWarnerRetirement pic.twitter.com/UIptXEPcZK
— RevSportz (@RevSportz) January 1, 2024
Warner is a mortal. He is human and makes mistakes. Not one, but many. But that’s his charm. The imperfection. Why is it that everyone needs to be perfect? Who says role models need to be perfect? They are human and just like each one of us, has flaws. But then, in their chosen domain, they exude brilliance. They seek perfection even on an imperfect day and script legacy. That’s how they turn themselves into immortal from being a mere mortal.
It will be impossible to forget Warner’s contribution to Australian as well as world cricket. No one can. And that’s where he wins. Despite all the criticism and the abuse and the trolling, he stands tall with his family. That’s what defines Warner, not the controversies. The successes do as well as his never-give-up attitude. That’s what sport is all about, isn’t it? Fight till the last ball is bowled. Maybe, that’s why at 37 when he runs towards the ball and flings himself to try and save a boundary he finds it an exhilarating challenge. To beat a ball travelling at great speed means his body can still do it. That’s Warner. He will challenge you. He many not always win but will never shy away from a fight.
In sport, you don’t always win. But you always try. David did. And that’s why he has enriched the sport he loves so much. Well played mate and happy farewell.
Unlike some others, David Warner will never be perfect. And that’s his charm. He will continue to seek perfection while being imperfect and in doing so continue to inspire. 100 Tests don’t come easy. Add his 50 over (ODI) performances, highest scorer for Australia in 2019 and 2023, and you have a once in a generation player. So what if he is not perfect? As David Warner says, “I have no regrets. Humbled with what life has given me and the family. All I want to do is stay true to my sport and be a good father.”
Also Read: David Warner quitting ODI cricket, what a New Year shocker!