David Warner, one of Australia’s most dynamic opening batters, has never been shy about sharing his views on the game he helped define for over a decade. Known for his fierce competitiveness and explosive starts, Warner’s retirement left a noticeable gap at the top of Australia’s batting order. Since stepping away, he has transitioned into a mentor-like role, offering insights that reflect both experience and affection for the team he once spearheaded.
As the 2025–26 Ashes series draws closer, beginning on November 21 at Perth’s Optus Stadium, Warner has weighed in on who he believes should open for Australia. The Ashes, cricket’s oldest rivalry between Australia and England, will move on to Brisbane, Adelaide Melbourne and Sydney after the opener. For a nation that lives and breathes cricket, especially during an Ashes summer, the discussion about openers has become one of the most debated topics in Australian sport.
Since David Warner’s exit, Australia have tried several combinations at the top — from Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne to Travis Head, Nathan McSweeney and the promising youngster Sam Konstas. None, however, have managed to replicate David Warner’s stability and flair. But the former opener believes the solution may not lie in constant experimentation.
David Warner has openly supported sticking with Sam Konstas as Australia’s opener for the high-stakes series. He feels that the 21 years old deserves a proper run, especially on home soil. Sam Konstas impressed with a brilliant debut century against India in Melbourne last year but struggled to find form in the following series against the West Indies. Warner believes the youngster has shown enough glimpses of talent to warrant another chance.
Reflecting on the team’s possible lineup, David Warner said that Marnus Labuschagne should return to his natural position at number three, where he has consistently delivered for Australia. Warner emphasised that experience counts, pointing out Labuschagne’s Test average of around fifty as proof of his value in the middle order.
He praised Sam Konstas for his technique and temperament, recalling the youngster’s strong performance in the Australian A series and other domestic games. According to David Warner, Sam Konstas may have been overwhelmed by the pressures of early international cricket but time and trust could help him mature into a dependable opener.
David Warner added that Sam Konstas wouldn’t face the same daunting bowling attack as India’s Jasprit Bumrah, giving him a chance to settle and play freely. While selectors have reportedly discussed other options like Mitch Marsh and Josh Inglis, Warner insists there’s no reason to look past Sam Konstas just yet. He believes that giving young players consistent opportunities, rather than short-term fixes, is vital for Australia’s long-term success.
As the countdown to the Ashes begins, David Warner’s endorsement carries weight, not only because of his reputation but also for the fact that he understands the psychological demands of facing England’s fiery pace attack under the glare of an Australian summer. For Warner, it’s not just about finding an opener. It’s about backing potential, trusting youth and allowing the next generation to build a legacy.
Do you agree with David Warner?
