Ashes 2023: David Warner plays well when he looks to score – Alastair Cook

Former England captain Alastair Cook reckons David Warner plays well when he is playing with intent and looking to score runs. Warner, who has had a mundane Ashes, was able to finally deliver on the penultimate day of the fifth and final day.

The left-hander scored an unbeaten knock of 58 runs off just 99 balls with the help of nine fours. Warner added an unbeaten opening alliance of 135 runs with Usman Khawaja, who also scored a fine knock of 69 runs.

Ergo, both the left-handed openers have given a perfect start to Australia in the run-chase of 384 runs. Apart from his knock of 66 runs in the first innings at Lord’s, Warner has been troubled continuously by his nemesis, Stuart Broad but he was able to keep him at bay on Sunday.

“Warner has played really well, not the Warner I remember that was that attacking but he has been more progressive with his attacking nature. There’s been real intent. He plays better when he looks to score,” Cook said on BBC during the match.

On the other hand, Mark Wood was introduced into the attack by England skipper Ben Stokes in the 33rd over of the second innings. Wood was able to make a mark as he hit Khawaja on the head and once again impressed with his extra pace.

“England have gone all in, that’s hit Usman Khawaja hard. Everytime a batter gets hit, it’s because they’ve taken their eye off the ball,” Cook said.

“We’ve barely seen any seam movement. The clouds are coming in and the ball is doing nothing,” the former captain further added on the conditions.

Meanwhile, Australia needs another 249 runs to win the Ashes whereas England will be looking to hunt 10 wickets to achieve parity in the series. Khawaja and Warner are once again going to hold the key for the tourists and they will look to give another good start on the final day of the series.