Warner lavishes praise on ‘incredible’ David

Australian opener David Warner believes the battle for spots in the Australian middle order will only further heat up after Tim David’s impressive performances since his debut.

David has showcased his power and hitting ability in full flight since making his debut during Australia’s tour of India last month. He impressed with his finishing ability and continued to do the same in the second T20I against West Indies in Brisbane, hitting a 20-ball 42. David’s knock helped Australia post a competitive score helping them seal a 2-0 series win.

The competition for the middle order spots in the Australian side is heating up, with the hosts yet to finalise their XI ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell are the designated finishers in the side but David has certainly made a big impression. Other middle order batters in the squad include Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith, while skipper Aaron Finch also dropped down the order from his usual opening slot during the series against West Indies.

Opener David Warner believes that with such fierce competition in the ranks and David’s form, making a final call will be a massive challenge for the selectors.

Speaking to the media after the match, Warner said, “Each individual has their roles – we’ve got Marcus Stoinis and Glenn Maxwell who are our finishers – (so) where does he fit in the line-up and what’s his role? Coming out and playing that role there when it was a hard wicket to start on really opens our eyes to ‘how do we utilise that?”

“But even what he did for Mumbai (Indians, in the IPL), he got a couple of thirties or forties off eight or nine balls – it’s incredible. You don’t get these types of players every day. It’s going to be good for us moving forward and hopefully, there’s a spot there as well because the selectors have got a headache now.”

Warner also believes that David’s performances are a massive boost for the defending champions as they aim to clinch back-to-back T20 World Cup titles.

“Now he’s in our team and our set-up, it’s a godsend. He’s an incredible player and he’s got some serious power. It boosts our middle order. With his height as well, and strength, it suits us that’s for sure.” 

Australia will play a three-match series against England next and a warm-up fixture against India before opening their World Cup campaign against New Zealand on October 22 in Sydney.