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'Absolutely pathetic': Rare David Warner act divides cricket world

Riley Morgan
·Sports Reporter
·5-min read
David Warner (pictured) hitting a six from a double bounce delivery in the T20 World Cup semi-final.
David Warner (pictured) caused a debate after he hit a double bounce delivery for six during the T20 World Cup semi-final. (Image: Twitter)

David Warner helped lift Australia to a remarkable T20 victory over Pakistan in the T20 World Cup semi-final, but a decision to hit a double-bounce delivery has divided viewers.

Australia pulled off the great escape after Matthew Wade and Marcus Stoinis lifted the team to victory on Thursday night to put the nation one win away from their maiden T20 World Cup title.

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Warner topped scored for Australia, despite a controversial dismissal that left the cricket world scratching their heads, after taking the game to Pakistan.

But it was his aggressive game-style that also had some fans questioning whether he crossed the line after chasing down and smashing a double-bounce delivery.

Australia were 2-57 when Mohammad Hafeez bowled an erroneous no-ball that bounced twice.

Warner charged down to his leg side and ended up whipping the ball for six.

"Oh, he has hit that for six, that is incredible strength," commentator Mark Nicholas said.

"I don't think I've ever seen that before, a double bouncer hit for six."

There was some confusion amongst players as the umpire eventually awarded a no-ball, a six and a free-hit.

However, some viewers took exception to Warner's tactic to chase after the no-ball and hit a six.

While many thought this was fair game, considering the ball was still bouncing, others found it against the spirit of cricket.

One critic was former Indian batter Gautam Gambhir.

He slammed Warner for his 'pathetic' display of sportsmanship.

Regardless, Warner did not break any rules and the runs counted considering the umpire had not called a dead ball.

David Warner dismissal causes controversy

However, fans were still left shaking their head after Aussie top-scorer Warner trudged off the field when he was caught behind.

Shadab Khan, who had already dismissed Steve Smith and Mitchell Marsh, was brought back on to make inroads into the Aussie order.

Khan tossed a wide ball down, which prompted Warner to lash out.

The bowler and keeper then jumped up to celebrate to claim a caught behind.

Warner was given out and walked off the field, leaving the Aussies reeling.

Australia's Marcus Stoinis (pictured right) and Matthew Wade (pictured left) embrace to celebrate their victory.
Australia's Marcus Stoinis (pictured right) and Matthew Wade (pictured left) celebrate their victory at the end of the ICC mens Twenty20 World Cup semi-final match between Australia and Pakistan. (Photo by AAMIR QURESHI/AFP via Getty Images) (AAMIR QURESHI via Getty Images)

But, replays showed Warner was quite some distance away from the ball.

Snicko also showed no spike.

Fortunately, Australia recovered due to a stunning Wade innings.

Dropped by Haris Rauf with 20 needed from 10, Wade hit the next three balls into the stands to seal the match with six balls to spare.

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