THE HITS KEEP ON COMING FOR BATTERED WARNER
DAVID Warner’s short and longterm future is under a cloud after a broken arm diagnosis compounded his withdrawal from the second Test with concussion.
On a dramatic day in Delhi, Warner was replaced in the Australian XI by Matthew Renshaw under international cricket’s concussion protocols, after the opener was struck in the head batting on the first day.
Warner was said to be dizzy and did not even appear on the team balcony.
In a worrying development, Warner was sent for scans as well given he also copped an equally brutal blow to his elbow on day one, as the braveness of his 44ball stay at the crease was laid bare. Warner has a hairline fracture of his arm.
Sources say it would not have prevented him batting again in the Test if it wasn’t for the concussion.
Warner is out of this Test and it is unclear from a medical standpoint whether the 36-year-old will be available for the third Test in Indore – although time is on his side with a long break between matches.
The double injury blow has come at a precarious time in Warner’s career with him struggling in the face of India’s relentless spin and pace bowling – although selectors have maintained they want the experienced run-making champion there for the Ashes later this year.
“David Warner will take no further part in the second Test match against India in Delhi having been diagnosed with concussion,” Cricket Australia said in a statement.
“He will be replaced in the team by Matthew Renshaw.
“Warner was struck on the helmet by fast bowler Mohammed Siraj in the 10th over of play.
“He subsequently demonstrated symptoms and failed a concussion test. Warner will now follow the graduated return to sport protocols ahead of the third Test in Indore in line with Cricket Australia guidelines.”
Warner was struck flush on the jaw when a short ball from Mohammed Siraj caught the top edge as he attempted a pull shot at the end of the 10th over.
A clatter of helmet could be heard in the stump mic and the opener walked away from the wicket.
He removed his helmet but did not flinch or feel for the injury, much as he refused to show any pain when struck on the arm by the same bowler in his previous over. The batsman had been struck a sharp blow by Siraj and Warner was in clear discomfort. Play was held up for some time as he spoke to the doctor.
At a break soon after, the arm hung limply by his side and the pain was obvious. Warner was attended by team doctor Leigh Golding following the head blow.
The 36-year-old apparently passed a basic cognitive test after being hit but complained of a headache and failed a secondary test on Friday night.
Mitchell Starc and Cameron Green both failed fitness tests after flying in for the second Test.
Aussie spinner Nathan Lyon wreaked havoc with four wickets – including skipper Rohit Sharma – to leave India reeling on 88-4 at lunch on day two chasing the tourists’ first-innings total of 263.