England returns serve to Warner

FORMER England opener Marcus Trescothick has called David Warner “pathetic”, saying the vice-captain risks distracting Australia if he is outspoken this summer.

Warner has recently outlined his plans to be aggressive and antagonistic during the Ashes, calling on teammates to find their inner “hatred” of the opposition.

“As soon as you step on that line it’s war,” he said at the weekend.

The comments have been derided in England, with Trescothick unimpressed.

“It’s pathetic, to come out with those sort of comments,” he told the BBC. “There’s always the hype that comes around before the Ashes, so I don’t think it’s something the [English] players will be drawn into. I think it will just be a good distraction, hopefully, for Australia and they can get caught up in a war of words.”

Former Australian skipper Steve Waugh wasn’t against it, but never hated England in his 168-Test career.

“There’s nothing wrong with a bit of byplay before the series starts. It gets everybody interested,” Waugh said.

“I’m sure Dave can handle making those comments himself, as long as he can back them up, which I’m sure he will.

“Everyone knows you want to beat England, but it can’t be a driving force to how you play.

“You have to concentrate on what you’re doing.”