3 Reasons why dropping David Warner from 4th Ashes Test makes sense

David Warner (Source: Twitter)

Australia opener David Warner has been under scrutiny in Test cricket due to his poor form, and his performance in the 2023 Ashes could not shake off the negative impression. The southpaw scored a half-century in the first innings of the second Test at Lord's, but this has been the only positive knock from the six innings played so far in the series.

But his inability to survive England pacer Stuart Broad makes his inclusion in the next match pointless. Warner got out to Broad three times out of six, and it looks like the Englishman will once again dominate the under-fire Australian in the series.

With England winning the last Test at Headingley, Australia will not want to take any chances and will look to win the match and the series when they meet at Old Trafford in Manchester from Wednesday, July 19. However, it remains to be seen whether Australia will retain Warner in such a scenario or try another option with Usman Khawaja at the top order.

In this article, we look at three reasons why omitting David Warner from the remaining Ashes Tests makes sense

3. It will give David Warner a well-deserved mental break

Warner has faced criticism from all quarters for his poor performance especially in the longer format. There's no doubting the veteran's skills and ability to bounce back, but sometimes hard work and practice alone aren't enough. A short break from the game and criticism may help him gain mental peace and strength to overcome the current rough patch.

A player like Warner, who has been in peak form across all forms for many years, has every 'right' to be in this phase, and many greats have gone through it and returned stronger than before. The pressure of being a world-class player can automatically put pressure on anyone, and sometimes a break is needed to regain rhythm.

2. It will allow Australia to try a left-hand, right-hand combination

A left-hand right-hand opening combo will always do better for any team in any format of the game. If Australia decide to keep Warner out for the remaining Tests, they could try a right-hander at the top alongside Usman Khawaja. This will make England bowlers to constantly change their lines as well as change the field placements.

Talking about the opening option, Australia can try Marnus Labuschagne, as the No. 3 batter won't mind facing the attack right away.

1. It will give England something new to tackle

If Warner is going to open with Khawaja in the fourth Test, England will not have to prepare for anything new. Instead, Ben Stokes will bring in Stuart Broad right from the start and the veteran pacer may again remove the opener to extend his record. If Australia appoints someone else to open the innings, especially if it is a right-hander, things will not be the same for the England skipper.

Also, unlike England, Australia declares the playing 11 just before the toss, making it difficult for the hosts to adjust to the situation immediately. This will help the new opener to get settled at the crease and score some valuable runs for his side.