David Warner has ignited excitement for the forthcoming Ashes series by making a cheeky remark aimed at England’s Joe Root, highlighting the batter’s struggles against Australian bowlers. Although Warner, now 38, has been out of Test cricket for over a year, he didn’t shy away from stirring the pot during an interview with BBC Sport.
As Warner prepares to participate in The Hundred for London Spirit, he shared his thoughts on the highly anticipated five-match series. He pointed out that Root has yet to score a century in Australia and suggested that his former Australian teammates might seek to exploit Root’s vulnerabilities against fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, especially while playing on home soil. “The big anchor there is Rooty, who is yet to score a hundred in Australia,” Warner commented, adding that Hazlewood has frequently troubled Root, saying, “He will have to take the surfboard off his front leg.”
Warner’s remarks did not go unchallenged, as former England cricketer Stuart Broad responded on social media, playfully correcting Warner’s comments. Broad pointed out that Hazlewood has dismissed Root LBW only three times in Test matches and quipped about the unconventional description of Root’s front pad as a “surfboard,” sharing the post with three laughing emojis.
This exchange is just another chapter in the long-standing rivalry between Warner and Broad, underscoring the playful banter that often characterises Ashes series build-ups. Despite predictions that the Australians will retain the Ashes, Warner acknowledged that Australia’s uncertain top order might provide England with an opportunity. He stated, “It all comes down to the bowlers. If the English bowlers can put a dent in the Australia top order, then they will come into the contest.”
The first Test match is scheduled to commence on November 21 at Optus Stadium in Perth, heightening expectations for what promises to be an enthralling contest between two of cricket’s fiercest rivals.