Australian cricket star David Warner has expressed a desire to coach the national team, sharing his long-term coaching ambitions in a recent interview. Though eager to be involved, Warner acknowledges it might take years before he gets a realistic shot at the role.
Future aspirations in coaching Team Australia
David Warner, who is currently balancing commentary duties for Fox Cricket with playing commitments for the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League, recently revealed his desire to eventually coach Australia. “I think maybe people at Cricket Australia want me to go away for a little bit and then come back in five to 10 years’ time when they’re probably gone,” he told Sunday Sesh. Warner’s plans may be some time off, but he is intent on keeping himself close to the game in the meantime.
Navigating Criticism as Commentator ft David Warner
As a new commentator, Warner said he’s ready to share his views, even if it ruffles a few feathers, including those of former teammates. “From my perspective, I always want to make sure that people understand that nothing is personal,” he explained. Warner intends to speak openly, but added, “If I ever be critical of someone, I’ll always speak to them beforehand or if they want to have a chat with me about some comments, they’ve got my number. They can call me up.”
The left-hander also acknowledged that criticism comes with the role: “It doesn’t faze me to be honest… it comes with being on TV. That’s the same as the game of cricket. They’re either going to like you on the field or they’re not going to like you.”
Past controversies and Path back to leadership
Recently, Warner’s lifetime captaincy ban was lifted, opening the door for him to potentially captain the Sydney Thunder in the upcoming BBL season. Warner received this ban as part of the fallout from the 2018 ball-tampering scandal in South Africa, alongside Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft. Now, following an independent review, Warner is eligible to return to leadership positions, with a number of high-profile figures endorsing his restored status.
Cricket NSW welcomed the decision, applauding the chance for Warner to bring his leadership experience back to domestic competition. Warner is expected to play close to a full season with the Thunder, who open their BBL campaign against the Adelaide Strikers on December 17.
Coaching as future Goal for David Warner
While he admits the coaching role may be a decade away, David Warner’s aspirations remain clear. “Yeah, coaching definitely,” Warner said. “First and foremost, it’s about keeping in the game through this perspective. That way, if the opportunity arises down the track, you actually understand the players that are around.”
Warner’s coaching ambitions align with his growing presence in the media, as he looks to stay connected to cricket and prepare for future roles within the sport. For now, the Australian opener is committed to exploring this new phase in his career, keeping his eyes set on eventually leading the Australian team from the coaching bench.