David Warner’s poor form ‘no real concern’ ahead of T20 World Cup, says Ricky Ponting

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting stated that David Warner’s poor form is no real concern ahead of the T20 World Cup. Warner could not deliver the goods in IPL 2024 for Delhi Capitals under the tutelage of Ricky Ponting.

Warner scored 168 runs in eight matches of IPL 2024 at an average of 21 and a strike rate of 134.40. The southpaw missed six matches for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing season due to an injury. Furthermore, Jake Fraser-McGurk was able to grab his chance in his absence.

The left-hander has been a consistent performer in the IPL as he has amassed 6565 runs in 214 matches at an average of 40.52 and a strike rate of 139.77.

“He actually started the tournament really well. His scoring rate was really good. At the start of the tournament, he was opening the batting for us with Mitchell Marsh, and that combination was working really well. He (Warner) didn’t really hit scores, and then he got a nasty hit on his hand,” Ponting told ICC.

Ponting called Warner a ‘feisty competitor’ and said he will be determined to prove his mettle in the T20 World Cup.

“Basically, had the worst bone bruising and his contusion on the back of his hand that he’s ever seen. He’s a feisty little competitor that once the World Cup comes around, he hits the Australian colours back on again. Then I’ve got no real concerns about him,” he added.

Warner has scored 3099 runs in 103 T20I matches at an average of 33.68 and a strike rate of 142.68. He is expected to open the innings with in-form Travis Head.

Australia will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Oman on June 5th Kensington Oval, Bridgetown, Barbados.