David Warner, whose string of low scores in the series has led to experts calling for him to be dropped from the side. David Warner fell prey to the bowling of Stuart Broad for a record 17th time, as he nipped an inswinging delivery to Zack Crawley in a second slip of the former’s bowling.
England lived to fight another day with a victory over Australia at the third test in Headingley, thanks to a quick-fire 75 by Harry Brook with Chris Woakes and Mark Wood rounding off a well-fought victory. Questions have been raised regarding the form of veteran opening batter.
The opening slot is critical for Australia- Kumar Sangakkara
In a conversation with Sky Sports, Sangakkara said that changing David Warner might not be the right option considering that Australia does not have another opener ready for the spot. He also pointed out the importance of opening partnerships, so as not to put pressure on the other batters and let them play their natural game. Kumar Sangakkara was of the opinion that the southpaw should be played in the final test, as the opening slot is critical for Australia.
“I think now they’ll have to play Warner. I’m not sure whether changing that is going to be the answer, but it will be up for discussion, if they have an opener ready. To balance the side out, are they going to leave Mitchell Marsh out? There’s a lot of additions to be made, but that opening spot is critical for Australia,” said Kumar Sangakkara.
Kumar Sangakkara. Pic Credits: Twitter
“They need partnerships there. They need a 40, 50, 60 run partnership there to let the other batters go and have a bit of a breather. Labuschagne hasn’t been in great run-scoring form. He’s just trying to survive out there. I think Warner might not get another opportunity, but they will discuss that.” he added.
Uncertainty over David Warner’s place in the team
Kumar Sangakkara dissected Warner’s woes against a late swing by Stuart Broad and suggested remedies by stating that only a perfect judgment backed by a solid defense can negate the swing.
Meanwhile, the Australian captain Pat Cummins was steadfast in his support of David Warner in the post-match conference reinstating the fact that he had the utmost faith in Warner and was happy with how everyone was going.
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