David Warner clarifies retirement plans after making T20 cricket history for Australia

David Warner was afforded a standing ovation having played his last international for his nation in Australia and the opener admitted the T20 World Cup would be his final tournament. Australia were not able to complete the clean sweep over the West Indies after the visitors cruised to a 37-run victory defending a monster 6-220.

The West Indies finished their visit to Australia in style as Andre Russell punished Adam Zampa in the first innings to set up the victory. Despite Australia not finishing the summer of cricket on a high, Warner was able to show he is ready for the upcoming T20 World Cup blasting 81 off 49 balls to give the hosts a chance in front of more than 17,000 fans.

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Warner isn't ready to finish his career and has signalled his intention to play at the World Cup in June across the US and the West Indies. The veteran opener had also left a return open for the Champions Trophy in 2025.

While Warner appears to be in good white-ball form at the age of 37, the opener told the players this would be his last match in Australia wearing the green and gold. After a few upcoming matches against New Zealand he will then officially retire from international football after the World Cup.

"I'm well and truly done. It's time for the youngsters to come through and showcase their talent," Warner said when asked about his future following the T20 World Cup. "We've got extreme talent here. We're in good stead for the future."

Knowing it was his last match at home, fellow opener Mitch Marsh was full of praise for Warner and was disappointed the players couldn't get a win to send the 102 T20 match veteran off in style. "It's obviously been an amazing career for him," Marsh said.

"I guess it's kind of fitting for him to finish the way it has (with that knock). What a servant to Australian cricket. Unfortunately we couldn't get a win for him." With his 81 runs, Warner became just the second Australian to surpass 3,000 T20 international runs. This comes at a brilliant average of 33.70.

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Warner has delivered during the T20 series against the West Indies having passed 50 twice for his nation. And Aussie cricket great Mike Hussey said it was important Warner maintained his form leading into the tournament later this year. "Let’s hope he’s there for the World Cup because he still looks in great touch, he’s still as fit as ever,” Hussey said.

Warner admitted he would take some time off after a busy summer. This comes after he wore the baggy green for a final time as a player in his final Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. He admitted he will 'freshen up' before the next white-ball series in New Zealand.

“Freshening up and spending some time with the girls,” Warner said of his wife Candice and family. “Not sure that’s going to freshen me up but it’ll be great to spend some time with them and work on their schooling and sport and just be home in my own bed.”

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