NEW DELHI: Former Australia wicketkeeper
Ian Healy
has expressed that
David Warner
could potentially prolong his
Test cricket
career for another year if he maintains the remarkable form he showcased in the just-concluded first Test against Pakistan in Perth.
The 37-year-old opener played a pivotal role in Australia's 360-run victory, scoring a match-winning 164 off 211 balls in the first innings.
Healy, commenting on Warner's performance, highlighted the cricketer's durability and fitness, emphasizing his impressive footwork and balance during the game.
He commended Warner's ability to maintain pace between wickets and suggested that if the left-hander continues to bat in such a manner, he could extend his Test career for another year.
"What I love about him is his durability. We all know how fit he must be because he's maintained his pace between wickets. I just love the way that he kept going and his feet moved," Healy remarked on SEN Radio.
Contrary to criticisms from former teammate
Mitchell Johnson
, who questioned Warner's decision to announce his Test retirement after the ongoing series against Pakistan, Healy believes Warner's recent century, especially in challenging conditions, was instrumental in Australia's Test victory in Perth.
"That 160 he made in the first innings won us a Test in Perth. It wasn't easy. Maybe Pakistan missed the trick in the first session (on Day 1), bowling too short, but I don't know of anyone else that can make 160 that quick in tough conditions," Healy said.
"If he bats like that, he can go another year for mine (me) until he doesn't want to play anymore. That's what he's been missing in Test cricket, that footwork, balance and real bat speed when he needed it," he added.
David Warner is set to bid farewell to Test cricket after the third Test in Sydney, but Healy's comments suggest that the seasoned opener could reconsider his decision if his current stellar form persists.
(With inputs from PTI)
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