Justin Langer has marvelled at David Warner’s cricket instincts after the powerful opener sent a double-bounce no-ball for six to help send Australia to the Twenty20 World Cup final against the Black Caps.
Warner was on the march in the semifinal against Pakistan when spinner Mohammad Hafeez lost control of a delivery that dropped short and slowly made its way towards the other end.
Warner steadied himself, shuffled to the side of the pitch and heaved the ball a long way over the boundary.
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The experienced batter’s decision to punish Hafeez’s wayward delivery drew criticism from some quarters, but Langer saw no issue.
“Oh my gosh, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever seen in the game of cricket,” the enthusiastic Australia coach said.
“I can’t believe anyone would have the instincts to do that – it was unbelievable.
“In fact, most people probably would’ve been not sure what to do … it was a no-ball and to have the talent and ability to hit it for six – unbelievable.”
https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/1458865037351682051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Former India batter Gautam Gambhir was one notable figure who questioned Warner’s actions.
“What an absolutely pathetic display of spirit of the game by Warner!,” Gambhir tweeted.
Warner’s strange night continued when he was caught behind and walked, after blasting 49 off 30 balls.
Replays showed a gap between bat and ball, and no sound was detected.
“Anyone who thinks (the six was) unsportsmanlike, that (walking) probably evens it up a bit,” Langer said.
Australia will take on New Zealand in the World Cup final on Monday morning (AEDT).
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