David Warner gets emotional during his memorable farewell speech

In a triumphant farewell at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), David Warner bid adieu to Test cricket with pride as Australia secured a resounding 3-0 series victory against Pakistan. Warner, reflecting on the team's remarkable achievements in the past 18 months, praised the squad's stellar performances, including winning the World Test Championship, a drawn Ashes series, and a triumph in the World Cup.

Speaking about the exceptional team effort, Warner specifically lauded the trio of fast bowlers and Mitchell Marsh, labelling them the "engine room" of the team. He emphasized their relentless work ethic, both in the gym and on the field, acknowledging their outstanding skills, even humorously admitting his reluctance to face them in the nets.

Taking a stroll down memory lane, Warner shared insights into his laid-back morning routine on the day of the decisive SCG match, expressing joy and satisfaction. Grateful for the unwavering support of the home crowd throughout his career, Warner extended his thanks to the fans for their incredible backing.

Highlighting the entertaining aspect of cricket, Warner emphasized that players are in the "entertainment business". He reaffirmed his commitment to showcasing an exciting brand of cricket, rooted in the style he initially brought to the Twenty20 format. As he steps away from red-ball cricket, Warner acknowledged the emotional significance of the moment, particularly while watching the upcoming series against the West Indies from the sidelines.

“We are in the entertainment business, happy to come out here and showcase what I try to do all the time. I started with Twenty20, tried to come here and emulate that, tried to play my shots and managed to get a win on the board,” Warner said.

“It’ll be quite emotional to watch the boys go out there (West Indies series) and not play knowing that I was able to come out here and do what I could do,” the 37-old further added.

Hope young kids out there can follow in my footsteps, white ball cricket to Test cricket: Warner

Besides, David Warner credited his family, especially his parents and wife Candice, for their unwavering support and the nurturing environment they provided. Expressing gratitude to Candice for keeping him grounded, Warner cherished every moment spent with his family. 

“We’ve had a beautiful family. I cherish every moment I get with them. Thank you Candice for what you’ve done, you mean the world to me and I appreciate it,” he said.

Looking forward, he encouraged young aspiring cricketers to follow in his footsteps and continue playing the red-ball game, considering it as the apex thing in the purest format of the game. Moreover, he urged the youngsters to work hard and play in an entertaining fashion like the way he did.

“Hope the young kids out there can follow in my footsteps, white ball cricket to Test cricket, it’s the pinnacle of our sport. So keep working hard and play the red-ball game which is entertaining as well. Thanks, everyone," Warner concluded.

Coming to the last Test of the series between Australia and Pakistan, Warner's farewell was accompanied by the team's impressive whitewash against the visitors. Warner played a pivotal role in the series, entertaining fans with his dynamic style and contributing significantly to the team's success. As the curtain falls on Warner's Test career, his legacy remains one of excitement, entertainment, and inspiration for aspiring cricketers worldwide.