Mitchell Johnson was not surprised by David Warner’s first-innings heroics against Pakistan. He stood by his view that Australia should have replaced the opener for the series. Two weeks ago, Johnson said the retiring Warner didn’t deserve a farewell series due to his poor form over the past three years and his involvement in the 2018 Sandpapergate scandal. Warner hit back by scoring 164 against Pakistan in the first Test in Perth on Thursday. Upon reaching triple figures, Warner made a shushing gesture towards the Optus Stadium media center. The under-fire opener said his celebration was for anyone “who wants to write stories about me and try to get headlines.” Johnson said the way Warner reacted to criticism reminded him of former England star Kevin Pietersen. He wrote in The West Australian that Warner may have denied he cares about criticism of his form, but it definitely does drive him as shown in his performance in the first innings. Warner was out for a duck in the second innings, but his memorable opening-day century is set to ensure he makes it all the way through to his chosen farewell Test at the SCG. Johnson stood by his criticism from two weeks ago, again highlighting Warner’s lack of runs across a three-year period. He also felt Australia missed a golden opportunity to blood new players into an aging team during a “soft summer,” rather than waiting for upcoming home series against England and India.
