Australian cricket star David Warner was spotted playing a game of ‘gully cricket’ on the streets of Mumbai on Wednesday, just two days ahead of the first ODI between India and Australia. The opener had flown back to Australia in December 2020, after suffering an elbow fracture during the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against India, which the hosts retained by a 2-1 margin.
However, Warner has since recovered and returned to India to join his teammates for the upcoming three-match ODI series versus India. In a video posted on social media, Warner was seen playing cricket on the bylines of Mumbai and appeared at ease navigating the tricky pitch. “Found a quiet street to have a hit,” Warner captioned the video.
Here’s the video:
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Warner had a disappointing Test series against India before his injury, making just 1 and 10 in the opening Test in Nagpur and 15 in the first innings of the second Test in New Delhi. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting had even suggested that Warner should retire after his double hundred in his 100th Test match in December last year.
However, Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has confirmed that Warner is part of their ICC World Test Championship final plan, scheduled to be played against India at The Oval starting on June 7. “Dave’s fully in our plans for the WTC final, he’s coming back for the one-day series (against India), he’s recovered from his injury, so we’ll see Dave back in Australian colours on March 17 and we’ll go from there,” McDonald said.
Nevertheless, David Warner’s eagerness to get back on the field and play cricket is a testament to his love for the game. It remains to be seen how he fares in the upcoming matches, but for now, cricket fans can take solace in the fact that even during uncertain times, the sport continues to bring joy and entertainment to millions around the world.
