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From Punching Joe Root To Verbal Fight With Rohit Sharma: Top 10 Controversies Involving David Warner - In Pics

In a surprising turn of events, Australian cricket stalwart David Warner has declared his retirement from One-Day Internationals (ODIs) today, adding a new chapter to his illustrious yet controversial cricketing journey. The 37-year-old, renowned for his explosive batting and pivotal role in Australia's World Cup triumphs, has decided to step away from the 50-over format to prioritize spending more time with his family. As we reflect on Warner's cricketing legacy, it becomes evident that his career is not merely a compilation of runs and victories but also a narrative filled with headline-grabbing controversies. Let's delve into the top 10 controversies that have shaped the colourful and often tumultuous career of David Warner.

Zee Media Bureau|

Updated:Jan 01, 2024, 03:30 PM IST

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1. Punching Joe Root: The Birmingham Brawl

In 2013, after a Champions Trophy match, Warner faced suspension for attempting to punch England batsman Joe Root in a Birmingham bar. The altercation sparked due to Root's green and gold fancy dress wig.

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2. Ball-Tampering Scandal: The Cape Town Controversy

Warner's involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal during a 2018 Test against South Africa shocked the cricket world. He instructed Cameron Bancroft on using sandpaper, leading to a one-year ban.

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3. Run-in with Quinton de Kock: Tunnel Tensions

Warner and South Africa's Quinton de Kock faced ICC charges in 2013 after a heated off-field exchange in Durban's Kingsmead tunnel. CCTV footage captured the fiery altercation, resulting in fines for both players.

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4. Twitter Rant against Journalists: Social Media Storm

In 2013, Warner was fined for a Twitter outburst against journalists during the IPL. Upset about a newspaper using his picture alongside an article on IPL corruption, he insulted two journalists, later expressing regret.

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5. Skipping a Match for a Horse Race: Randwick Race Regret

In 2013, Warner received a suspended sentence for skipping a grade match to attend a horse race at Royal Randwick. Cricket New South Wales reprimanded him, emphasizing the need for the right behaviour.

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6. Warner's Twitter Wars: Geeves and Australian Journalists

Warner engaged in Twitter wars, targeting former cricketer Brett Geeves in 2011 and Australian journalists in 2013. These incidents led to public spats, Cricket Australia intervention, and fines for inappropriate behaviour.

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7. Jonathan Trott "Weak" Comments: Ashes Insensitivity

During the Ashes 2013-14, Warner criticized England's Jonathan Trott, suggesting weakness. Trott later withdrew due to stress. Warner's remarks were deemed insensitive, leading to controversy and criticism.

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8. Clash with Thami Tsolekile: On-field Altercation in Africa

Sent to Africa to work on his batting after the Joe Root incident, Warner was involved in an on-field altercation with Thami Tsolekile during a match between Australia A and South Africa A.

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9. Verbal Exchange with Rohit Sharma: Speak English Saga

In a 2015 ODI, Warner charged at Rohit Sharma, asking him to speak in English. Fined for the incident, Warner explained his frustration at not understanding Hindi, leading to a heated exchange.

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10. The Ashes War Comments: Pre-series Provocation

Ahead of The Ashes 2017-18, Warner's comments on it being "war" stirred controversy. Criticized by opponents, the remarks fueled tensions, setting the tone for a heated series.

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