'Has Been There For a While': David Warner Picks His Successor

Ever since Australia opener David Warner announced his intention to call time on his Test career after the conclusion of the ongoing series against Pakistan, there’s been a debate over who could potentially fill into his role.

The likes of Matt Renshaw, Cameron Bancroft, Marcus Harris have been projected as the likely candidates with even left-field suggestions promoting Mitchell Marsh and Cameron Green up in the batting order being thrown about as well.

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But who does Warner himself think could be his ideal successor?

While the 37-year-old admits it’s going to be a tough choice and wants it to be left to the selectors, he considers Marcus Harris as the next in line.

“It’s a tough one,” Warner said. “It’s obviously up to the selectors. But from my position, I feel like the person who’s worked their backside off and has been there for a while in the background, I think Harry’s been that person. He’s toured, he’s going to have that chance. He scored a hundred the other day (during Victoria XI vs the Pakistanis in warm-up match).

Harris, 31, has played 14 Tests and scored 607 runs at 25.29 including three half-centuries.

“He (Harris) missed out in a couple other games but he’s always been that person who was next in line. If the selectors show faith in him, then I’m sure he’ll come out and play the way he does. It’s not too dissimilar to me. If he sees it in his areas, he goes for it, plays his shots, and I think he would fit well,” Warner said.

Warner doesn’t think Australia will be hunting for another opener anytime soon even though Usman Khawaja is the same age as him.

“I think because Uzzy’s spoken about the fact that he was resigned to the fact that he was done a few years back and now he’s just playing like every game is his last. He’s going to keep playing as long as he can and it’s a true testament to the way his mindset has been. His last 12 months have been absolutely phenomenal and he can play as long as he wants to and feels comfortable,” Warner said.