There was speculation that Australia's senior opener David Warner might retire from Test cricket after end of Ashes 2023 Test series. The fifth and final Test of the five-match England vs Australia Ashes 2023 Test series starts from Thursday (July 27) onwards at The Oval. The rumor of Warner's imminent retirement from the longest format surfaced after ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan said he had heard "whispers" during the Old Trafford Test that Warner could be playing his career's final Test match in Ashes.
On the eve of the final Ashes Test, Australia star Warner laughed off talks of his retirement but confirmed that he will call it quits from the longest format, next year.
"No, I don't have an announcement," Warner was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au.
"I won't be playing any further Test cricket after Pakistan. You have my word."
Following Australia's three-wicket loss in third Ashes Test, the Australian selectors were skeptical about whether to pick Warner for the last two Ashes or not. The senior opener started the innings for Australia in the first three Ashes Tests alongside Usman Khawaja but was spotted struggling to make runs. The fourth Ashes Test was set for a thrilling finish but it ended in a draw as rain played spoilsport. Australia successfully retained Ashes and now will go all out to win the series final, achieve their first-ever series win on English soil since 2001.
Last month, Warner had said he plans to retire following Australia vs Pakistan three-match home series next summer. The 36-year-old could be looking for a home farewell at the New Year's Test in Sydney.
Vaughan had also talked about the possible retirement of Steve Smith, but that too was also laughed off by Warner.
"Obviously it's a joke. I won't take that too seriously," Warner said, according to espncricinfo.com.
Warner has scored 201 runs at an average of 25.12 in the four Ashes Tests after making 43 and 1 in the World Test Championship final against India. The Oval Test could be Warner's final Test abroad.