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'Worst Nightmare as a Batter'- Michael Atherton On David Warner's Repeated Struggle vs Stuart Broad

image-lj16xvijDavid Warner was dismissed by Broad for the 15th time in Tests [Source: AP]

Former England captain Michael Atherton has shared his insights on Australian opener David Warner's dismissal at the hands of pacer Stuart Broad during the opening match of the Ashes 2023 at Edgbaston. Atherton described the unfortunate dismissal on Day 2 as a batter's worst nightmare.


Michael Atherton highlights mental struggle for David Warner

Warner, who managed to score a paltry 9 runs off 27 balls, fell victim to Broad's bowling, marking the 15th time he has been dismissed by the seasoned bowler in Test cricket. The dismissal occurred as Warner's inside edge ricocheted onto the stumps, leaving the left-hander visibly shaken.

During an interview with Sky Sports, Atherton voiced his concerns, emphasizing the mental ordeal that Warner now faces in liberating himself from the haunting memories of his recurring dismissals. Atherton went on to suggest that England's fielders would unhesitatingly amplify Warner's anguish whenever he strides onto the crease for his next innings.

“The worst thing for Warner to start the series is to get out to Broad because it just opens up all the memories and all the contexts of what’s gone wrong previously. Of course, England’s fielders won’t be slow to remind him when he comes out [to bat] next time,” said Atherton.

He described the dismissal as an absolute nightmare for a batsman, emphasizing the immense mental challenge one faces when a bowler consistently succeeds in the same manner. He emphasized the necessity for Warner to navigate through this challenging phase.

"It’s the worst nightmare as a batter. You have to find a way through it. It’s very tough mentally when a bowler keeps having success against you in the same way," added the erstwhile cricketer.

The Englishman further expressed disappointment over Warner squandering a promising opportunity and highlighted the regrettable manner in which he relinquished his wicket.

“Such a wasted opportunity for him [David Warner] because he was playing so well, and then to give it away, the way that he gave it away, for him, [it was] very unfortunate,” concluded Atherton.