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'He is Going to Be A Real Key for Australia': Mark Waugh on David Warner

image-lmudzt0xAustralian opener, David Warner (AP News)

In the world of cricket, the stage is often set for unexpected twists and riveting showdowns. As the cricketing world gears up for the highly anticipated ODI World Cup 2023, former Australian cricketer Mark Waugh believes that David Warner will be the linchpin of Australia's fortune in India. As Australia embarks on a 3-match ODI series against the hosts, India, the spotlight is firmly on Warner's shoulders, with expectations soaring high.

The series, poised to begin in late September, serves as an essential preparatory chapter for Australia before the marquee event in October. In such a scenario, Mark Waugh's insights carry substantial weight as he draws attention to the invaluable role David Warner is set to play in navigating the challenges of Indian conditions.

The crux of Waugh's assertion revolves around Warner's extensive experience in Indian conditions, a factor that might prove decisive in Australia's quest for ODI supremacy. He said:

"David Warner is going to be a real key for Australia in the Indian conditions.he has played here for a number of years. He knows the conditions here pretty well and in India, you have to play to the conditions very well. 

There might be a spinning track at some venue and then a seaming track in another one. Warner is a class player, that hundred in South Africa will give him a lot of confidence because his Test match cricket has dropped a little bit in the last couple of years."

He is riding high on confidence after delivering two impressive performances against South Africa in the recently concluded 5-match series. These performances have reignited hope among fans and experts alike regarding his pivotal role in Australia's ODI campaign, particularly in the forthcoming ODI World Cup 2023.

Warner's journey in the series was a rollercoaster, commencing with a disappointing duck in the opening match. However, the cricketing world witnessed his remarkable comeback in the second encounter, which took place in Bloemfontein. 

In that game, Warner exhibited his batting prowess by crafting a spectacular century in just 87 balls. His aggressive innings, comprising 106 runs off 93 deliveries, adorned with 12 boundaries and three towering sixes, proved instrumental in Australia's commanding 123-run triumph over South Africa. 

This monumental achievement marked Warner's 20th ODI century, tying him with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar for centuries scored against South Africa in ODIs, a testament to his remarkable consistency and class.

Warner's contributions extended beyond his individual score in that game. Partnering with Marnus Labuschagne, he orchestrated a formidable 151-run partnership, effectively setting a daunting target for the South African side. In the third match of the series, Warner continued his impressive run, adding 78 runs to his tally.

Waugh emphasized Warner's pivotal role in the ODI format and said:

 "I do feel that he is a real threat in ODI cricket, and with Travis Head not being there, there is going to be a lot of pressure on him," Waugh stated. He further highlighted Warner's rhythmic style of play, underlining his ability to provide explosive starts and lay down a strong foundation for the team.

David Warner's previous stint in India was marked by struggles. Following a challenging Border-Gavaskar Trophy and an ODI series, Warner encountered difficulties in finding his fluent form during the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, his recent performances indicate a resurgence of his batting prowess, instilling confidence.