David Warner has come under fire for hitting a double-bounce delivery for six during Australia’s T20 World Cup semi-final win over Pakistan, but coach Justin Langer has nothing but praise for the star opener.
Former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir said Warner’s decision to hit the ball was “absolutely pathetic”, slamming him for a lack of sportsmanship.
Despite the strong comments, Langer said Warner dispatching the ball from Mohammad Hafeez’s delivery was one of the more incredible things he’d ever seen while involved in the game.
“It’s one of the best things I’ve ever seen in cricket,” he said on Sportsday.
“How he had the instincts in a semi-final and the ball bounces twice…how he hit it over the fence for six was unbelievable.
“He then missed one and walked off (despite being given out caught behind) which was unbelievable, the atmosphere was incredible and it was a great result.
“David Warner is like having Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather in your team – a two in one. He just does his thing and we back him in and keep our arms around him.
“He’s been brilliant. He’s elite fit at the moment which tells me he’s hungry and he’s playing beautifully as well so let’s hope he has one more good (innings in him).”
Australia will take on New Zealand in the T20 World Cup final in Dubai on early Monday morning (AEDT).