Warner roars back: 26th Test ton stuns critics in AUS vs PAK Test

On the first day of the opening Test against Pakistan, Warner showcased a spectacular century, effectively quieting the critics who had been advocating for his exclusion from the team in the longer, 5-day format.

In an impressive display, Australian batting sensation David Warner answered his critics emphatically by notching up his 26th Test century in the inaugural match of the series against Pakistan. Amidst speculation that this series against Shan Masood's team could mark Warner's farewell to the five-day format, he commenced this potential swansong with a commanding century on Day 1, capitalizing on Pakistan's vulnerable bowling attack.

Leading up to the match, Mitchell Johnson, Australia's legendary former pacer and Warner's teammate, raised doubts about whether the Aussie opener deserved a hero's farewell, citing his recent poor red-ball form and his involvement in the 2018 ball-tampering scandal. Responding in his 110th Test appearance, the left-hander showcased his signature aggressive style, smashing 15 fours and a massive six in his 149-ball innings (Warner remained unbeaten till Tea on Day 1).

Warner celebrated the century with his trademark leap and basked in the applause from the spectators. He reserved a special gesture during the celebration, putting his fingers on his lips while looking above.

In a chat with former Australia opener Adam Gilchrist following the end of the second session, Warner stated that it was just a response to the relentless criticism over his place in the side in the build-up to the Test. “You have got to take criticism. There's no better way to silence them than putting runs on the board,” Warner told Gilchrist.

This was Warner's 48th international ton that further strengthens his place as the second-highest centurion for Australia across all formats, after Ricky Ponting (71). Despite the criticism, the Aussie opener remains high on confidence after a stellar last few months, that saw him lifting the ODI World Cup title in November as Australia defeated India in the final.

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