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Australia’s opening David Warner showcased a batting masterclass in the second One Day International (ODI) against South Africa at Mangaung Oval, Bloemfontein on Saturday. Warner’s scintillating century played a pivotal role in Australia’s commanding performance as they batted first.
Explosive partnership sets the stage for Australia’s massive total
Warner, in partnership with Travis Head, set the stage on fire with an explosive opening stand. The duo amassed 102 runs in just 10 overs, putting South Africa on the back foot early in the match. However, spinner Tabraiz Shamsi struck in the 12th over, dismissing Head, followed by Mitchell Marsh departing off the very next ball.
Despite the quick wickets, Warner continued to dazzle and, alongside Marnus Labuschagne, kept the scoreboard ticking. In the 30th over, Warner reached a remarkable century, completing his hundred from 85 deliveries. During this innings, he also achieved another significant milestone by surpassing 6,000 runs as an opener in ODIs for Australia, becoming only the second player after Adam Gilchrist to do so.
Also READ: ICC unveils latest Men’s ODI team rankings; Australia regains No. 1 position after victory over South Africa
Record-breaking century
Warner’s century marked a historic moment as he became the first Australian opener to notch up 20 centuries in ODIs. His spectacular innings came to an end when Andile Phehlukwayo dismissed him. Warner had shaped up to pull a length ball, but it kept low and hit his stumps.
Also READ: Twitter goes berserk after David Warner breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most centuries as an opener in international cricket
Candice Warner celebrates husband’s achievement
Warner’s record-breaking ton received accolades not only from cricket fans but also from his loved ones. His wife, Candice Warner, took to Instagram to celebrate his remarkable achievement. She shared a story featuring a picture of her husband in a vintage celebration mode, captioning it as a “Massive Achievement” along with “20th ODI 100” and “6000 ODI runs.”
Warner’s splendid performance not only helped Australia post a formidable total on the scoreboard but also played a significant role in securing their victory in the second ODI against South Africa.
