Usman Khwaja Pays Tribute to his Childhood Friend David Warner

On January 2, 2024, Usman Khawaja paid rich tributes to his opening partner David Warner ahead of the latter's farewell Test against Pakistan in Sydney, which starts on January 3. Khawaja shared pictures with Warner from their childhood and also from the 2023 ICC World Test Championship final. In these pictures, the duo can be seen:

• Holding stumps in their childhood photo.
• Holding the Test mace in the latter photo.

Khawaja's tribute highlights the strong bond between the two cricketers and their shared journey in the Australian team.

Khwaja's Tweet -

Australia's David Warner has announced his retirement from both one-day international (ODI) cricket and Tests. The left-handed batter has had an illustrious career, having represented Australia in 111 Tests, scoring 8695 runs, including 26 centuries and 36 half-centuries. In ODIs, he amassed 6932 runs in 161 matches, hitting 22 centuries and 33 half-centuries. Warner's decision to retire from both formats comes after an "absolutely amazing" World Cup win and his desire to create opportunities for new players and explore other cricketing leagues around the world.

A Beautiful Ending -

Just like Pat Cummins, Warner too had a happy ending before his retirement. He won both WTC and World Cup and that too by defeating India on both occasions. He was also part of the 2021 T20 World Cup, and 2015 World Cup winning teams.

“It’s a fairytale ending” – David Warner on opening with Usman Khawaja for one last time

David Warner called it a fairytale ending of his Test career to open for Australia with childhood friend Usman Khawaja for one last time. He was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au:

“I was saying to Uzzie this morning when we were out in the middle (at training), with his debut Test I was actually sitting up in one of the boxes up there and it was awesome to see.”

“It’s a fairytale ending. I don’t know too many cricketers who have gone through junior cricket with each other and played the highest level for a long period of time.

“When you’re childhood friends dreaming big and you get to go out here at the SCG, it’s fitting.”

Aussies have taken an unchasable 2-0 lead against Pakistan in the 3-match Test series. They will be keen to register a 3-0 whitewash and give a befitting farewell to Warner, who can be recognized as a legend of the game.