David Warner Open to Test Cricket Comeback for Series Against India

David Warner, the retired Australian opener, has left the door open for a surprising return to Test cricket for Australia’s upcoming series against India. Warner, who stepped away from the longest format earlier this year after leading his side to their first ICC World Test Championship title, has hinted that he is available if the selectors need him.

Despite his retirement from Test cricket, Warner has remained active in the international arena, playing in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June and participating in various franchise T20 leagues. Now, as Australia faces a selection dilemma at the top of the order, Warner has made it clear he would consider a comeback if called upon.

With a five-match Test series against India set to begin in November, Australia’s batting line-up is in flux. Veteran Steve Smith, who briefly filled the opening role earlier this year, is expected to return to his regular No. 4 spot, while all-rounder Cameron Green is sidelined due to injury. This has left selectors searching for a reliable partner to open the batting alongside Usman Khawaja.

However, options such as Marcus Harris, Matthew Renshaw, and Cameron Bancroft have struggled to make an impact in the early stages of the domestic Sheffield Shield season, potentially opening the door for Warner’s return. Speaking to Australian media, Warner expressed his willingness to step in if needed.

“I’m always available, just got to pick up the phone,” Warner said. “I’m always dead serious. Let’s be honest, the guys have played one red-ball game (first round of the Sheffield Shield) since their last Test matches in February, so I’ve almost had the same preparation.”

Warner, 37, noted that he would be open to playing in New South Wales’ next Sheffield Shield match against Queensland, starting November 1, or even featuring for Australia A in their upcoming games against India A. He acknowledged that while he retired for personal reasons, he remains ready to step up if Australia’s selectors send out a call.

“I did retire for the right reasons, but my hand is up if they desperately need someone,” Warner said. “I’m not going to shy away from that.”

Australia’s Test series against India begins on November 22 in Perth, followed by a day-night Test in Adelaide, and further matches in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. The series will be pivotal in determining the finalists for next year’s World Test Championship. India currently leads the standings, with Australiain second place.