Australian Veteran David Warner Anticipates Hostile Reception in New Zealand
Wellington, Feb 19 (IANS) – Australian cricket veteran David Warner is bracing himself for a less than warm reception from Blackcaps fans in New Zealand as he embarks on his final tour of the country. Warner, who recently retired from Test and ODI cricket, addressed the media on Monday and expressed his anticipation of facing a heated reception based on his previous encounters in New Zealand. However, he remains confident that it will not affect his performance in the upcoming series.
“The crowd, yeah, they got personal, but if they have to get personal, that’s their character. I just go about my business. But that’s upon each individual. If that’s what they feel like they have to do, then so be it. If you want to pay your money to come and abuse people, you have to go back and lay in your own bed,” Warner told reporters.
He further admitted that while there should be more tours for Australia in the future, the rivalry between the two countries makes for an exciting schedule. The three-match series against New Zealand will precede the two Tests and serve as Australia’s final outing in the shorter format before the T20 World Cup in June.
Warner, who confirmed that the upcoming T20 World Cup will be his last international cricket swansong before becoming a full-time domestic franchise player, will be looking to make the most of his remaining time representing Australia on the international stage.
The veteran opener’s ability to perform under pressure and maintain focus amid a hostile crowd will be put to the test as he and the Australian team gear up for the series against New Zealand, beginning on February 29.
–IANS
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