Australia vice-captain David Warner turned on the “banter mode” switch recently when asked about his approach for the upcoming Ashes series.
He candidly stated that he would have to find some form of “hatred” to get the best out of himself, as everyone out there are mates. He also urged the umpires to follow a less strict approach when dealing with sledging incidents.
“I try to look into the opposition’s eye and try and work out how can I dislike this player, how can I get on top of him and you really got to find that spark in yourself to really take it to the opposition.”
“You have to delve and dig deep into yourself to actually get some sort of hatred for them to actually get up when you’re out there because history is a part of this and that’s what carries us onto the ground.”
This blunt admission followed by even more straightforward remark regarding the Ben Stokes bar brawl. He claimed that he got suspended for a lot less; trying to compare his bar scuffle with now Test skipper Joe Root which took place in 2013.
These comments from Warner indicates that the English side should probably expect some tough cricket from him and the rest of Australian team.
Lehmann Unconcerned About Warner’s Talks
All these pre-Ashes banter has created excitement about David Warner. The left-handed opener is undoubtedly one of the key persons in the campaign and his performances, among other factors, will be largely responsible for deciding which way the momentum will swing for Australia.
However, head coach Darren Lehmann did not look concerned and said David Warner would be in his famous “Bull” avatar or a mellowed version of it if the deputy in-charge continues to make runs.
“Whichever way (Warner) decides to go, he’ll go – he’s his own man,” Lehmann told cricket.com.au.
“Bull, Reverend, Bull, Reverend, I don’t know which one turns up, but the main thing for him is that he leads well.
“He helps Steven (Smith) out as vice-captain, which he will do, and makes runs. If he decides to get stuck into their players, which I’m sure he will look at various stages, that will come back both ways.”
Warner’s comments pathetic says, Vaughan.
Warner’s recent remarks haven’t gone down too well with some. England opener Marcus Trescothick termed the comparison of the Ashes with war as “pathetic.”
Lehmann has assured that while the series will be at its fiery best, there will be no personal insults hurled at the opposition from his boys.
“It’s going to be a fiery series at different times, but they all know each other reasonably well because they play so much cricket with and against each other these days,” Lehmann said.
“As long as it doesn’t go personal, and no-one will go down that path, but I’m sure our boys will give as good as they get.”