David Warner Slams Critics with Ton, Mitchell Johnson Pushed Down by Cricket Australia

Mitchell Johnson, the firebrand Aussie paceman, was surprisingly uninvited from speaking at a Cricket Australia (CA) function just before the the West Test, reports News Corp. This sudden change came amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding Johnson and Warner, which CA deemed unsuitable for the pre-tour event.

Initially named as the guest speaker, Johnson was replaced by former teammate Mike Hussey at the last minute. While declining to specify the exact reason, a CA spokesperson told News Corp, “Mitchell is one of Australia’s most celebrated bowlers, but we felt on this occasion it was in everyone’s best interests that he was not the guest speaker at the CA functions.”

READ MORE: “Arrogant and Disrespectful , Mitchell Johnson Hits David Warner For Past Deeds

The drama unfolded as Johnson, in a fiery column, questioned Warner’s place in the national team and even aimed barbs at Warner’s wife. This prompted Cricket Australia to step in, replacing Johnson as a guest speaker at pre-Test functions.

The governing body felt Johnson’s comments had crossed a line, deemed “disrespectful” and “not in everyone’s best interests.” Fueling the flames, Warner responded with a masterful century against Pakistan, his bat doing the talking while a playful shush to the media box seemed to say it all.

Johnson, watching from the commentary box, was a target for TV cameras, highlighting the awkward tension. Warner clarified his desire to retire on home soil, but emphasized performance as the key factor, not a “demand” for a farewell.

He dismissed claims of self-centeredness, stressing his focus on team success and upcoming challenges like the Ashes and World Test Championship.

The Johnson-Warner saga wasn’t without its dissenting voices. Former captain Justin Langer, echoing calls for private conversations, criticized public airing of grievances amongst ex-players. He advocated for public praise and direct, private criticism.

Warner silences critics with masterful ton as Johnson watches on

David Warner silenced his critics with a stunning 164 in the first innings against Pakistan, seemingly sending a “shushing” message to the media after reaching his century. This came amidst a backdrop of Mitchell Johnson’s public criticisms of Warner, which had created controversy in the cricketing world.

Initially, it seemed Johnson wouldn’t be involved in Triple M’s commentary for the Test, further fueling speculation. However, his surprise appearance in the commentary box added another layer to the saga. Throughout Warner’s dominant innings, Channel 7 cameras repeatedly focused on Johnson’s reactions, amplifying the tension.

The public rift sparked strong opinions, with former Australian captain Justin Langer criticizing Johnson’s approach. In his West Australian column, Langer challenged the practice of airing grievances publicly within the “rare club” of Australian cricketers. He advocated for a simple principle: “praise in public, criticize in private.”