Australia's opener David Warner marked his 26th test century, seizing the moment to silence critics by "shushing" the Perth media box during the first test against Pakistan at the Perth Cricket Stadium on Thursday.
The hosts concluded the day at 346-5 from 84 overs, with Warner's blazing 164 off 211 balls stealing the spotlight. Usman Khawaja (41) and Travis Head (40) also made notable contributions.
Reflecting on his performance, Warner, with a touch of humour, told reporters, "I was disappointed with getting out; we could have been four down at the end there. But it's up to the selectors—if they want to keep continuing to pick me, then I ain't leaving."
Warner's century came with an uppercut against debutant seamer Aamer Jamal (2-63) in the 43rd over. With this impressive display, the 37-year-old is now almost certain to play his final test in front of a home crowd in Sydney—a goal he publicly expressed in June.
Despite facing scrutiny over his spot in the test side and the desire for a home farewell, Warner remained unfazed. Responding to media attention, he stated, "Anyone who wants to write stories about me, get headlines that stuff doesn't bother me."
Warner acknowledged the importance of celebrating his success in his own way and described his century celebration gesture as "a nice little quiet shush." During the first session, he aggressively took on Pakistan's seam attack, exemplified by a six-over fine leg against fast-bowler Shaheen Afridi.
Warner's innings showcased his determination, surpassing former greats Matthew Hayden and Michael Clarke to become Australia's fifth-highest test run scorer with 8651.
Despite a dose of luck, including a dropped catch and a missed stumping, Warner added three more sixes before eventually miscuing Jamal to Imam-ul-Haq at backward square.
"I am getting older; it's probably game-by-game now. If I fail next inning, there'll probably be headlines, but it is what it is." Warner reflected on his performance and the inevitable scrutiny that comes with the game.
