David Warner's epic double ton puts Australia in command on Day 2

Warner scored a sensational double ton [Associated Press]

David Warner, who had his backs against the wall notched up a scintillating double century in his 100th Test match to put Aussies in the driving seat at the end of Day 2 at MCG. 

His place was in jeopardy after a string of poor performances in recent past but the southpaw responded in style and extended Australia's lead closer to the 200-run mark. Before the Test match, Warner stated that he'll take the aggressive path and he did exactly that. With temperature soaring 40 degrees, he played with grit, determination and aggression to ruin South Africa's day.

It is fair to say that a day that started with a lot of promise for the South African bowlers turned out to be a doomsday for them. They got the early wicket of in-form Marnus Labuschagne, courtesy of a brilliant run-out by Keshav Maharaj but that was the only success for the visitors for the next two sessions.

South African pace attack bowled at tight lines and lengths on a wicket that had plenty for the bowlers but fetched no rewards for it.

Warner reached his fifty off 72 balls with a single towards the covers and went on the aggressive path after that. Warner reached the 8000-run mark in Test cricket and ran twos and threes for fun on a day wherein the temperature was soaring high and it showed Warner's fitness level.

He reached the three-figure mark with a pull towards the fine leg region and this was his first Test century since January 2020, as well as his first in 28 innings.At the other end, Steve Smith continued the good work and was the ideal partner for Warner. He too was given a lifeline early in the innings but Smith showed his class and breached yet another 50-run mark.

As the day went by, the wicket got flatter and flatter and suited Warner's aggressive style of play. The southpaw continued to toil with the toothless Proteas bowling attack and brought up his third double ton in Test cricket. In the process, he became the second player after Joe Root to score a double century in his 100th Test match.

Just after reaching the 200-run mark, Warner got retired hurt because of cramps.

Smith, who is known for his excellent conversion rate couldn't capitalise this time and was eventually dismissed by Anrich Nortje for 85.

Cameron Green, the star with the ball in first innings became the second batter after Warner to walk off the field. He was struck by Nortje on the right forefinger and couldn't continue playing.

Eventually Australia ended Day 2 on 386 for 3, with Travis Head and Alex Carey at the crease.

Brief Score

Australia: 386-3 (91.0)

David Warner 200 (retired hurt), Steve Smith 85 (161);

Anrich Nortje 1-50 (16), Kagiso Rabada 1-94 (18)

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