Former Australian selector Jamie Cox has criticised David Warner’s endorsement of Marcus Harris as the next Test opener. David Warner suggested Harris as his replacement as Australia’s designated Test opener once he hangs his boots at the end of the AUS vs PAK Test series in Sydney.
David Warner slammed by Jamie Cox for picking his replacement
Former selector Jamie Cox, who held the position between late 2006 and 2011, during a period when Warner had not yet debuted in the Test side, questioned Warner’s involvement in the selection process. Cox raised concerns about Warner offering input on the matter, stating that it was a first time affair for a player to suggest his own replacement.
“I have never heard of a current player anointing their successor. What’s wrong with ‘that’s a question for George Bailey not me’? I need a lie down…!” he added.
Despite the available options, Warner has advocated for Harris, citing the latter’s strong claims to the opening spot, given his experience with 14 Test matches and his inclusion in the Ashes squad that retained the Urn in England earlier this year. Warner emphasized that Marcus Harris, who scored his century against Pakistan at nearly one run per ball, is a player capable of scoring rapidly and playing attacking shots.
David Warner’s reasoning behind picking Marcus Harris
“It is a tough one (and) it is obviously up to the selectors,” he said.
“But from my position, I feel like the person who has worked their backside off and has been there for a while in the background (is Harris). Harry’s been that person who has toured (and) he scored that 100 the other day and missed out in another couple of games but he’s always been the person who’s next in line.”
He highlighted the successful gamble taken on him in his youth, indicating that such risks can yield significant dividends for the team.
“So if the selectors show their faith in him, then I’m sure he’ll come out and play the way he does. You know, he’s not too dissimilar to me.”
Harris, who recently scored a century for Australia A against Pakistan, is among the leading contenders for the Test opener position. Other candidates include former Test openers Cameron Bancroft and Matthew Renshaw. Additionally, all-rounder Cameron Green, currently with the national squad in Melbourne, is another option if the Australian selectors opt for a batting order reshuffle.
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