NEW DELHI:
Australian cricket
star
David Warner
's impassioned plea for the return of his missing
baggy green cap
has proven successful, with the iconic headwear discovered in his team hotel in Sydney.
The baggy green cap had gone missing in transit from Melbourne to Warner's hometown after the second Test against Pakistan, forcing the 37-year-old to don a replacement during the third Test's opening day.
Warner shared the news on social media
"I am very pleased and relieved that I have got my baggy back in my hands," exclaimed Warner in a post on Instagram on Friday. "Any cricketer knows how special their cap is, and I'll cherish this for the rest of my life."
Warner, who made 34 in Australia's first innings on Thursday, expressed his gratitude for the efforts that led to the recovery of his cherished cap.
"I'm very grateful to all those involved in locating it... it's a load off my shoulders going into the last couple of days."
What is a baggy green cap?
Australian cricketers receive the baggy green cap on the morning of their Test debut, a tradition laden with historical significance and sentimental value.
Despite its inevitable deterioration over the course of a player's career, the cap remains a symbol of pride for those who wear it.
Warne's cap auctioned for A$1 million
The baggy green cap of cricketing legend
Shane Warne
, sold at an auction in January 2020 for a staggering A$1,007,500 ($675,528.75), further underscores the cultural and monetary value associated with these iconic items.
Australia's prime minister,
Anthony Albanese
, joined the chorus in supporting Warner's appeal for the return of the missing cap, highlighting the broad recognition and respect that the baggy green cap commands within the country.
The recovery of his original cap adds an emotional touch to Warner's farewell match at his home Sydney Cricket Ground.
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(With inputs from Reuters)