David Warner says he and the Australian team feel in really good touch following a thumping win at the MCG to retain the Ashes. (Photo: ICC/Twitter)
After retaining the Ashes in only 12 days, David Warner believes the Aussies are in great shape heading into the new year.
Australia sealed the Ashes in spectacular fashion on Tuesday morning, thumping England by an innings and 14 runs at the MCG.
Whilst Scott Boland was the man of the match, Warner again played a big role, scoring 38 off 42 to kickstart the Australian innings.
It’s been a near perfect start for the veteran opener. Following on from his Player of the Tournament performance at the T20 World Cup in the UAE, he’s scored the third most runs this series (240 at an average of 60).
Warner told media post match that he feels in good touch following these first three Tests and the World Cup. He’s also looked for inspiration in an unexpected way from the English side.
“The first two Tests I actually looked like a proper batter, it’s almost like I played my career the other way and had to knuckle down, respect the bowling and the line and lengths that they were bowling,” Warner said.
“I was out of runs, not out of form so hopefully I can put some more numbers on the board leading into this new year.
“I think James Anderson sets the benchmark for older guys these days, we look up to him getting on in our days.”
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The Australians have been in spectacular form to finish 2022, winning both the World Cup and Ashes series inside two months.
The Ashes win is particularly impressive given the likes of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have missed at least one game each. Warner added that he’s been impressed with the depth of the fast bowling cartel.
“Credit to the selectors as well for making those brave decisions, it’s never easy leaving one of our best bowlers [Hazlewood] out.”
Hazlewood has been out for the last two Tests due to a side strain injury. However, Warner said he could potentially come in for the New Years Test.
While it might force changes that are less than ideal, it speaks further to the depth the bowling group currently holds.
“Bolo [Boland] might have to exit for that, these are conversations that are gonna have to come up in the next couple of days,” he said.
“We’re in a great position at the moment, but 3-0 up moving into Sydney we’d like to get up there as well.”
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