Former Australian cricketer Ed Cowan has fueled the debate surrounding David Warner’s impending Test retirement by siding with Mitchell Johnson’s criticism. Johnson, in a recent column, questioned why Warner was receiving a hero’s send-off despite not owning up to his role in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal.
Cowan, who debuted alongside Warner in 2011, agrees with Johnson’s point on Warner’s recent form, stating that the veteran opener’s performance doesn’t justify his farewell tour. “Mitch Johnson is saying what 90 percent of people in the pub have been thinking,” Cowan remarked on The Grandstand Cricket Podcast.
He further argued that statistically, Warner shouldn’t be considered among the best eleven players, suggesting Marnus Labuschange or Travis Head as more suitable opening options. This reshuffle, according to Cowan, would allow Australia to field their strongest batting lineup with Cameron Green and Mitch Marsh at five and six.
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He criticized Warner’s recent form, labeling him a “walking wicket” and highlighting his lack of significant scores outside of a double-century against South Africa in late 2022. “He’s been a walking wicket for two years now,” Cowan bluntly stated.
Cowan believes opening the batting wouldn’t be a major adjustment for Labuschange, who typically bats at three. He also proposed Head as a potential option, although acknowledged Head’s possible reluctance.
This statement by Cowan adds fuel to the ongoing debate regarding Warner’s Test future, raising questions about whether the veteran deserves a final farewell tour or if his recent form warrants a change in the opening slot.
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