Ashes 2023: Marcus Harris believes David Warner will retain his spot for Manchester Test

David Warner, the Australian opener, returned to camp after a week-long break, just in time for a crucial fourth Ashes Test at the Old Trafford in Manchester. There are speculations of Warner's potential exclusion from the team, but fellow left-handed opener Marcus Harris believes that the senior pro will retain his spot for the pivotal match.

Warner's break allowed him some family time in Europe, offering a much-needed respite amidst the intense Ashes series. This break may have provided him with a fresh perspective that could aid his retention for the match, where Australia has the opportunity to secure their first Test series win in England since 2001.

Throughout the tour, Warner has faced challenging batting conditions. However, concerns arose after his dismissals at the hands of Stuart Broad. The Manchester track traditionally offers a faster and truer surface, raising the possibility of further struggles for Warner. If he fails to deliver this time, it could prompt the selectors to axe him for the final match at the Oval, particularly if the Ashes series outcome remains uncertain.

Harris acknowledged that even if Warner has not scored big individually, his contributions to the team are significant. “Even if you’re not getting the big runs that you want to get, if you can still contribute to the team in some way, shape or form, I think you’re doing a job," he was quoted as saying by The Sydney Morning Herald.

Meanwhile, one potential option could be to promote Marnus Labuschagne to open alongside Usman Khawaja. The adjustment would allow players like Travis Head and Mitch Marsh to remain in their middle-order roles, while Steve Smith or Cameron Green could bat at number three.

Amidst discussions about Warner's future, his position in the white-ball squad ahead of the upcoming World Cup in India is also a matter of consideration. He narrowly escaped being dropped last summer, scoring a double century against South Africa at the MCG in his 100th Test. He then made crucial contributions to Australia's World Test Championship final victory over India at the Oval.

As the fourth Ashes Test approaches, the selectors need to make a critical decision regarding Warner's inclusion and potential changes to the batting order as these deliberations will determine not only Australia's strategy for the Ashes but also the upcoming white-ball tournaments.