In a dazzling display of skill and determination, Australian superstar David Warner silenced his critics by scoring a breathtaking century on the opening day of the first Test against Pakistan in Perth. It was Warner’s 26th Test ton which not only marked a personal triumph but also drew him level with the legendary Sir Gary Sobers on the all-time list of Test centurions.
Under pressure, David Warner rises to the occasion
Facing mounting pressure due to a dip in his Test form, Warner’s inclusion in Test series faced a criticism from quite a few, including former pacer Mitchell Johnson. However, the explosive opener, known for his aggressive style of play, responded by delivering a stellar performance that left fans and critics alike in awe.
Opting to bat after winning the toss, Australian captain Pat Cummins made a strategic decision that proved to be in favor of Warner. The left-handed batter exhibited a free-flowing and aggressive style, punishing loose deliveries from the inexperienced Pakistan pace bowling attack. Warner’s fired-up body language and decisive running between the wickets with his opening partner, Usman Khawaja, showcased his determination to make a statement.
Also WATCH: AUS vs PAK – David Warner’s unreal scoop against Shaheen Afridi on Day 1 of Perth Test
Notable records and milestones
- Warner’s century is his first in the calendar year and his 26th overall in Test cricket.
- He joins the elite club of Test centurions, standing shoulder to shoulder with Sir Gary Sobers.
- The Australian opener now ranks fifth among openers with the most Test centuries, following Sunil Gavaskar, Alastair Cook, Matthew Hayden, and Graeme Smith.
Test openers with most centuries:
- Sunil Gavaskar – 33
- Alastair Cook – 31
- Matthew Hayden – 30
- Graeme Smith – 27
- David Warner – 26
Here is how Twitter reacted:
David Warner, always talks with his bat when people try to stack the cards against him. Love watching him play. Every minute. @davidwarner31 #AUSvPAK
— Chloe-Amanda Bailey (@ChloeAmandaB) December 14, 2023
Oh What A Feeling #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/Csj44dnPf0
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 14, 2023
Celebration by David Warner after completing the hundred.
– He has silenced the critics in style. pic.twitter.com/3eJLNZGDKb
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) December 14, 2023
Congratulations 👏🎉 @davidwarner31 on the 💯. You are a run machine.Enjoyed watching every bit of you. #PAKvAUS #warner
— Ramesh Chitor (@rameshchitor) December 14, 2023
David Warner’s last three innings v Pakistan at home:
🏏 154
🏏 335no
🏏 102no (and still batting)#AUSvPAK— Tim Michell (@tim_michell) December 14, 2023
Test cricketers scoring 100s at the most grounds vs the same opponent in Australia
5 – Sunil Gavaskar v AUS
5 – Alastair Cook v AUS
5 – DAVID WARNER v PAK— Swamp (@sirswampthing) December 14, 2023
Most Test Hundreds against Pakistan 🇵🇰
10 Kumar Sangakkara 🇱🇰
8 Aravinda de Silva 🇱🇰
6 Greg Chappell 🇦🇺, Allan Border 🇦🇺, Jacques Kallis 🇿🇦 & David Warner 🇦🇺#AUSvPAK #AUSvsPAK— Fox Sports Lab (@FoxSportsLab) December 14, 2023
Hundred in farewell test series. This is how you shut up your critics. Well played Warner pic.twitter.com/xAysqMLQTB
— Cricketopia (@CricketopiaCom) December 14, 2023
A special start to a very special series for Davey ♥️#AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/1OxWGws33q
— Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) December 14, 2023
David Warner gets to triple figures for the first time in Tests in 2023 – what a way to start your final Test series 👏 #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/ZeoaU3bwDu
— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 14, 2023
David Warner and his celebration jump. Hope he never plays cricket on roof in India.
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) December 14, 2023
Take that, Mitchell Johnson…!!! pic.twitter.com/EWJUvBGo1f
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 14, 2023
David Warner is ageing like a fine wine, getting better with the time.
Congrats on your 26th test ton @davidwarner31 , that’s one hell of a way to start your farewell test series.#AUSvsPAK #PAKvsAUS pic.twitter.com/xeAxxzrGyl— शांतनु (@WhyShantanu) December 14, 2023
Congratulations @davidwarner31 👏
Can’t wait to see you at the SCG. #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/vTNyq3UeRs
— Sydney Cricket Ground (@scg) December 14, 2023
100 in his farewell Test Series! @davidwarner31 🔥 pic.twitter.com/rdmph9u4um
— Naman (@Mr_unknown23_) December 14, 2023
🚨 Century 💯 by David Warner 🤩
Century 💯 by @davidwarner31 for Australia 🇦🇺 on his farewell Test Series
Absolutely superb hundred as he shows his class that his fitness level are remarkable#PAKvAUS #DavidWarner pic.twitter.com/4RJqtBXfIH
— Tahir khan (@tahirthe12thman) December 14, 2023
26th Test 💯 For Warner in his Farewell Test series 🔥@davidwarner31 🙌#AUSvsPAK pic.twitter.com/RnUwLYz7tb
— R∆J€SH (@SOseetarama) December 14, 2023
26th test century. Sixth against Pak
That’s a frame to keep. 🐐@davidwarner31 pic.twitter.com/gOskWPTzib
— Sakthi sudhan (@sakthi_sudhan) December 14, 2023
Hundred for modern days greatest opener 💯💯 @davidwarner31 pic.twitter.com/azoDaGbHWo
— Annamneni Pramod (@rao_annamneni17) December 14, 2023
Also WATCH: AUS vs PAK – Abdullah Shafique fails to grasp a simple catch of Usman Khawaja on Day 1 of the first Test
