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David Warner’s Perspective On The Future Of Trans-Tasman Cricket

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David Warner's Perspective On The Future Of Trans-Tasman Cricket

Veteran Australian opener David Warner has called for more regular cricket tournaments between Australia and New Zealand.

Warner believes the future of cricket relies on continuing the strong trans-Tasman rivalry.

The two nations are currently facing off in a T20 series for the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy. This will be 37-year-old Warner’s last bilateral series for Australia before he retires from international cricket after the T20 World Cup later this year.

Speaking ahead of the series in Wellington, Warner said he feels Australia does not tour New Zealand frequently enough anymore. He pointed out that New Zealand has come over to Australia “six or seven times” since he last played in New Zealand back in 2010.

“Definitely, Australia could come over here more,” Warner said. “With our rivalry and being close neighbours, it just fits.”

According to Warner, keeping this historic rivalry alive with regular tournaments is crucial for the interest and growth of cricket in both countries. Fans on both sides are always passionate when Australia and New Zealand meet on the cricket field.

Warner has seen first-hand the passion Kiwi crowds have, even recalling some unsavoury verbal abuse directed his way during the 2016 tour. But he believes engaging this passion through more visits is vital.

The opening batsman has experienced cricket in New Zealand from the very small scale to the very large.

When he first toured New Zealand in 2010 after breaking into the Australian team, Warner played some matches domestically for the Northern Knights. This included a trip to Oamaru, a quiet town of just 14,000 people on the South Island.

“I literally thought it was a ghost town. I was walking down the street. It was a Saturday… there was just no one there,” Warner said.

“We legitimately played on a football field, it was quite crazy because, coming from Australia, it’d be like playing on a rugby league field.”

In contrast, this T20 series will conclude with matches at a packed Eden Park, attracting huge crowds due to the rivalry.

Warner believes it is a shame the two teams do not meet more often. Previously, the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy was only on the line when they played ODIs.

But the cricket administrations in both countries have recently agreed to expand it to T20 contests as well. This will give the trophy named after Australian legends Greg Chappell and Ian Chappell, and New Zealand great Sir Richard Hadlee, more exposure.

The families of Chappell and Hadlee have also welcomed the change to ensure the trophy remains relevant.

Warner will finish his illustrious career for Australia at the T20 World Cup later this year. But he hopes Cricket Australia will schedule more regular tours to New Zealand going forward.

The veteran wants young Australian players of the future to be able to enjoy the same intense rivalry he has had the privilege to experience during his career.

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Anzac Day clash one out of the top draw for Pies, Dons

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Anzac Day clash one out of the top draw for Pies, Dons

Just like the thousands of fans who packed the MCG on Anzac Day, the Essendon and Collingwood players left everything out on the field in a thrilling draw that will be remembered as one of the best home-and-away games in recent times. The Bombers and Magpies played out a pulsating contest in front of 93,644 spectators, with neither team able to secure the victory in the dying moments of the match.

Essendon’s Kyle Langford, who had an outstanding game with four goals, including two crucial ones in the final quarter, had the chance to win the game for his team but missed a set shot from 30m out, resulting in the first draw on Anzac Day since the inaugural blockbuster in 1995. Collingwood also had their opportunity to snatch the win, but forward Jamie Elliott couldn’t hold onto a diving mark near the boundary in the final moments of the game.

“I thought both sides had their opportunity to win the game,” said Bombers coach Brad Scott. “It’s a bit of a hollow feeling, but I said to the players win, lose or draw, the effort and intent is what we’re after, and the players delivered that.”

Collingwood, known for their ability to perform in tight finishes under coach Craig McRae, fought back from a 27-point deficit to level the scores with the Bombers. The Magpies showed resilience and determination throughout the game, with forward Brody Mihocek kicking three goals and veteran Scott Pendlebury becoming the first VFL/AFL player to reach 10,000 career possessions.

Despite the draw, the match provided plenty of highlights, including Elliott’s spectacular mark in the third quarter and Pendlebury’s milestone moment in the first quarter. Both teams showcased their skills and competitive spirit, making it a memorable clash that captivated the audience and showcased the essence of Anzac Day football.

“On a day like today, when most of the footy world would be watching, it’s a great spectacle for our game,” McRae commented after the game. The players from both sides left it all on the field, displaying courage, skill, and sportsmanship throughout the intense battle.

While the result might have been a draw, the Anzac Day clash between Essendon and Collingwood will be remembered as a classic encounter that showcased the best of Australian Rules football. The players, coaches, and fans can take pride in the effort and intensity displayed on the field, making it a fitting tribute to the Anzac Day tradition of honoring and remembering those who have served and sacrificed for their country.

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Australians eye happy homecoming at Adelaide’s LIV Golf

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Australians eye happy homecoming at Adelaide’s LIV Golf

Homecoming can be defined as a pleasant return to one’s homeland or ancestral roots, and for Australian golfers Cameron Smith, Marc Leishman, Matt Jones, and Lucas Herbert, the LIV Golf tournament in Adelaide presents a perfect opportunity for a successful homecoming. With the second tournament set to kick off in Adelaide’s west at The Grange, the Australian golfers are eager to make their mark on home soil.

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Leading the individual standings is Chile’s Joaquin Niemann, who has already claimed two victories this season. Despite Niemann’s impressive performance, the Australian golfers are focused on their own game and the possibility of lifting the trophy in front of their home fans.

Marc Leishman, who achieved his best finish in a LIV Golf tournament with a tied-fourth position in Miami, emphasized the significance of winning in Adelaide. A victory at the LIV Golf tournament would not only be a career highlight for any of the Australian Ripper team members but also a momentous occasion for Australian golf as a whole.

As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on the Australian contingent as they strive to deliver a stellar performance on familiar turf. With the support of the local fans and a strong sense of home advantage, Smith, Leishman, Jones, and Herbert are determined to make their mark at Adelaide’s LIV Golf tournament and potentially etch their names in the history books with a victorious homecoming.

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