David Warner's long international career seems to have come to an end, although a formal announcement is awaited. Australia's surprise exit from the T20 World Cup after Afghanistan's win over Bangladesh meant a low-key farewell for the veteran opener.
Warner's retirement has been gradual. He retired from ODIs after the World Cup win in November and Tests in January. This T20 World Cup was always planned to be his final tournament. However, a Champions Trophy appearance next year remains a possibility, though unlikely.
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His final innings against India was underwhelming. He scored only 6 runs before being caught by Virat Kohli. There was no special send-off as Australia awaited the outcome of the Bangladesh match to confirm their fate.
Warner's teammates acknowledged his contribution. Josh Hazlewood spoke about a proper tribute after the tournament.
"Nothing's been said yet. It might be said after press conference before the evening game, but I think we'll wait until after the game and then we'll acknowledge the career that's been. It's been unbelievable. We'll definitely miss him around the group, out in the field and off-field - an amazing all-format career." Josh said.
Travis Head, Warner's opening partner, expressed his disappointment about a potential anti-climactic ending.
"We'll be disappointed if it ended like that, where we have to watch another game. A lot has been said about what he's contributed to Australian cricket at the top of the order in all formats. He goes down as our best multi-format player. He'll be missed at the top of the order, but let's hope tonight is not the end of it. We'll wait and see but we'll give him a send-off tonight if that is the case later on. It might be a bit of a late one if the fixture finishes the way it has. But a lot has been said about how good Davey has been at the top of the order." said Head.
Australia's exit from the tournament marks an end of an era, with Warner's retirement and a young squad. Hazlewood expects a gradual shift, and not a complete overhaul.