It has been some comeback to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for David Warner with the Sunrisers Hyderabad opener racking up an unbeaten ton and two half-centuries in his three innings so far.
Returning to the competition after a one-year absence following his involvement in the ball-tampering episode, Warner has been in irresistible form with scores of 85, 69 and 100 not out which have come at a striker-rate of over 176.
Sunrisers coach and Warner’s Australia compatriot Tom Moody believes that the left-handed batsman has come out with a point to prove in IPL 2019 following his 12-month suspension and has lauded his mental resilience.
“He has come back full of enthusiasm, full of determination, and with a lot to prove,” Moody said.
“One thing David Warner – and I think all top players are the same – they have got an unquenchable thirst for the game and to have success in the game. That thirst certainly hasn’t been withdrawn by any means.
.@davidwarner31's known for not 'WARN'ing the opponents and he's doing exactly that this time around as well! 🔥#OrangeArmy #RiseWithUs pic.twitter.com/To287YJ3gS
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) April 2, 2019
“He has always had a very positive mindset. He is a very determined and a resilient individual. To endure what he and [Steven] Smith and [Cameron] Bancroft have had to endure over 12 months, there has to be a lot of mental toughness, there has to be a lot of resilience, and having also a very positive mindset because you can very easily find yourself down for long periods of time.”
The 254 runs scored by Warner in the 2019 edition so far have helped the Australian batsman become the first overseas player to bring up 4,000 IPL runs. His partnership with England rival Jonny Bairstow at the top of the order has been nothing short of sensational with the pair putting on three consecutive century stands.
Hyderabad have so far managed two victories from their three clashes and have a chance to go top of the table on Thursday when they take on Delhi Capitals at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium.
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