Teams will need anchors in slow pitches of T20 World Cup: David Warner

David Warner in Delhi Capital ( Photo source : X / Twitter )

As the T20 World Cup 2024 approaches, Australian cricket star David Warner has weighed in on what he believes will be a crucial element for success in the tournament – having an anchor in the batting lineup. Speaking at a press conference for his team, DC, Warner emphasised the importance of having a player who can guide the innings, especially on the slow pitches expected in the Caribbean.

Reflecting on his experience playing in the Caribbean Premier League for the St Lucia Stars, Warner highlighted the challenges posed by the slower pitches, particularly for spinners.

“They (pitches in West Indies) can be slower and they’re gonna turn a bit. I don’t think they’re going to be as compact as they are here. You know, I’ve played a lot of cricket over there. I’ve played in the CPL. The wickets tend to get a little bit lower and slower,” Warner said in the press conference, as quoted by India Today.

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“Even when we played there in 2010 World Cup, the pitches there weren’t high scoring. That’s when you did need an anchor. Someone like Mike Hussey came out and scored runs for us. He had to come and sort of knock it around,” Warner added while recalling the 2010 edition where Australia finished runners-up.

It’s gonna be completely different there: Warner

Warner also pointed out that the timing of the matches, which are scheduled during the day for favourable broadcast timings, will influence pitch conditions. With matches played under the Caribbean sun, bowlers are likely to find assistance from the dry pitches, which could lead to more spin.

“It’s gonna be completely different there. Add the natural elements as well. There’s going to be predominantly day games. I think because of the timing. So that plays a big a big factor,” Warner said.

“So the ball definitely will not be swinging like here at least in India. Here for first four or five overs, the ball can swing and could be challenging so. The pitches in Caribbean being dry, the ball will get roughed up and it’s going to spin,” Warner further added.