Josh Hazlewood, the Australian new-ball seamer, has acknowledged that David Warner’s departure from international cricket will be deeply felt by the team. Warner’s retirement from international cricket marked the end of his all-format career, and Hazlewood praised him for his dynamic opening style and multiple World Cup titles. Warner’s World Cup success was marked by titles in 2015, 2021, and 2023, and despite his struggles in the last two matches, he still managed to score 178 runs in the tournament, including a notable 169 against Ireland.
Hazlewood believes that Warner’s departure will be felt, not just for his on-field contributions, but also for his presence around the group. He notes that Warner has been part of multiple World Cup-winning teams and was a dynamic opener who made his international debut in 2009. Hazlewood is confident in the Australian team’s ability to adapt and move forward, citing the rapid pace of change in T20 cricket. He believes that the team has a strong squad with multiple class players and some quality players on the bench, and that the transition will be gradual with no drastic changes expected.
The Australian team is still reeling from their surprise exit at the hands of Afghanistan in the T20 World Cup, but Hazlewood’s words provide a Look into the team’s perspective on Warner’s departure, emphasizing the significance of the opener’s contributions to the team. While it’s clear that Warner will be missed, the Australian team is well-equipped to adapt and move forward, with a talented pool of players waiting to take the mantle. With their next international assignment against England in white-ball matches in September, the team will have to use this experience to bounce back and make a strong impression in the next T20 World Cup.
Hazlewood’s comments come at a time when the Australian team is dealing with the aftermath of their T20 World Cup campaign. Despite being knocked out, the team will use the experience to regroup and prepare for the next edition of the tournament. With Warner’s retirement, the team will have to find new ways to succeed, but with the talent they have, Hazlewood believes they will be able to adapt and move forward.