In a remarkable chapter of his fairy-tale career, David Warner notched up his 26th Test century amidst speculations about his position in the team. The left-handed batsman responded emphatically with a characteristically aggressive performance on the opening day in Perth, putting Pakistan on the back foot early in the day before they found their footing.
Approaching the Tea break, David Warner reached his milestone, ensuring that Pakistan’s improved bowling efforts didn’t derail Australia’s dominance. Although he lost his opening partner, Usman Khawaja, early in the session to Shaheen Afridi, who had him caught behind for 41, ending their 126-run partnership. Shortly after, Faheem Ashraf dismissed Marnus Labuschagne with a well-executed LBW delivery.
This marked Pakistan’s most effective bowling phase of the day as they refined their lengths, keeping the scoring rate in check. David Warner navigated through this period, even if it meant slowing down, reaching his century with a cut boundary off the 125th ball he faced.
Warner received support from a fluent Steve Smith at the other end, capitalizing on Pakistan’s indisciplined lengths. In the early stages of the third session, Khurram Shehzad claimed his maiden Test wicket, dismissing Smith caught behind. However, Warner found a new ally in the in-form Travis Head, who contributed 40 runs in a 66-run partnership before falling victim to Pakistan’s short-ball strategy. While Head was caught at third man, Warner embraced the challenge, hooking a six and displaying his adventurous side. He surpassed 150 before eventually departing, attempting a pull shot to debutant Aamer Jamal.
His innings of 164 held the Australian innings together, ensuring they didn’t falter even as Pakistan improved throughout the day. It was a direct result of Australia’s near-perfect morning session.
Opting to bat first, Australia faced little discomfort, with Shaheen Afridi struggling to find his rhythm with the new ball. Despite debutant Khurram Shahzad’s tight overs, Afridi’s wayward bowling allowed Warner to kickstart his final Test series with a flurry of boundaries. Warner attacked aggressively, reaching his 37th Test fifty off only 41 balls, hitting three fours in a Faheem Ashraf over. This quick start allowed Australia to dictate the pace.
Usman Khawaja played a pivotal role, providing a composed foil to Warner’s aggression. Despite the dot balls piling up, Khawaja remained unfazed. He had a stroke of luck on 21 when Abdullah Shafique missed a high catch running back from the slip cordon.
In his return spell, Shaheen Afridi had an LBW review turned down against Warner, who responded with an audacious scoop off a length ball for a six, setting the tone for a day focused on his batting prowess.
Warner’s masterclass not only answered questions about his form and position but also anchored Australia’s innings. His partnership with Khawaja and later with Head ensured that Australia remained in control, even when Pakistan posed challenges.
The day’s success was rooted in Australia’s decision to bat first, capitalizing on Pakistan’s inconsistent bowling. Warner’s aggressive approach, coupled with solid support from his teammates, laid the foundation for a commanding performance.
As David Warner approaches the twilight of his Test career, this innings serves as a fitting tribute to his cricketing legacy. The left-hander’s ability to adapt to varying challenges and lead from the front underscores his significance in the Australian lineup. The stage is set for the remainder of the Test series, with Warner’s heroics injecting confidence into the team and adding another compelling chapter to his illustrious career.