Xtra Time Web Desk: Australian opener David Warner on Saturday said he is still fighting to be match fit for the third Test against India in Sydney which starts from January 07. The swashbuckling batsman is “highly doubtful” he’d be 100 per cent fit if he did play the test match. The explosive opener was named in the squad after he sat out the first two Tests with a groin injury and has been badly missed as Australia’s top order struggled to build partnerships. “We’ve got a training session today and tomorrow so I can’t give you any more indication of where I’m at,” Warner told media. “Am I going to be 100 per cent? Highly doubtful.”
After rejoining team training, he was confident in his batting but was still uncertain he would be able to hold his own in the field in his current condition. But, he said, the final call would be made in the coming days and he was preparing to be part of the side.
If he does run out for Australia, he will likely replace Joe Burns who was dumped from the squad after struggling in the last two Tests.
Reflecting on Australia’s lack of partnerships in the top order, Warner said Australia needed to up its urgency at the crease to tackle India’s bowling attack.
Australia won the opening Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, with India levelling the series on Tuesday with an eight-wicket win in Melbourne.