If I had my time again, I'd bite my tongue a little bit more: David Warner
David Warner says he would have toned down a bit if he were to start all over again. Warner walked into Test sunset on Saturday, ending a glorious career in the most befitting manner, guiding Australia to an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan for a 3-0 series sweep.
In his final outing in the traditional format, the 37-year-old was not his customary, belligerent self but still made a 75-ball 57 at the SCG, his home venue.
«Over the years, I haven't been everyone's cup of tea but for me, I've played the game as hard as I can and trying to do my best for the team,» Warner told host broadcaster 'Fox Cricket'.
«If I had my time again and I knew that, I probably would show a little bit more patience with myself and I'd bite my tongue a little bit more.»
Warner has been seen as an aggressive, and, at times, slightly nasty, character ready to not just sledge but also engage in verbal volleys with opposition players, especially during the early part of his career.
He was the central figure in the infamous ball-tampering scandal in 2018 in South Africa, for which he copped a one-year suspension from first class cricket and a lifetime ban from Australian team leadership.
«I think a lot of people don't get to see or meet or know the person. From when I first started, I was that chirpy little fella that was out there,» Warner said.
«That was my role in the team...to go out there and get under the batter's skin and the opposition's skin and yeah, it did boost me a little bit because they came at me when I batted.
»But they saw it early days, and I think your first impression, you don't get a second chance at that and you know, I've tried to rebuild that trust and faith."
Warner insisted he was able to change his approach in
