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Xtra Time Web Desk: David Warner’s illustrious 15-year international cricket career has come to a close following Australia's unexpected exit from the T20 World Cup. Afghanistan's victory over Bangladesh in St. Vincent on Monday night marked the end of the Super Eight phase and sealed Australia’s fate, thereby concluding Warner’s time in the national team.

Warner's retirement from international cricket has been a gradual process. His last One Day International (ODI) appearance came during Australia’s World Cup final triumph over India in November, and he played his final Test match against Pakistan in January. Warner had long hinted that this T20 World Cup would be his last hurrah, although he had left the door slightly ajar for a potential return in next year's Champions Trophy.

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His final match, against India, ended in disappointment. Warner managed only six runs off six balls before edging a delivery from Arshdeep Singh to slip, where Suryakumar Yadav took a sharp low catch. Frustrated, Warner walked off the field without the ceremonial guard of honour or standing ovation typically afforded to retiring legends, as the uncertainty of his retirement lingered. Post-match, he was seen deep in conversation with Virat Kohli, while teammate Josh Hazlewood noted that any official team send-off would depend on the outcome of the Afghanistan-Bangladesh game.

Reflecting on Warner's departure, Hazlewood praised his incredible career across all formats. "We’ll definitely miss him around the group, on and off the field - an amazing all-format career," he said. Warner’s fellow opening batsman, Travis Head, expressed his disappointment at the abrupt end, highlighting Warner's monumental contributions to Australian cricket across all formats. "He goes down as our best multi-format player. He’ll be missed at the top of the order," Head remarked.

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As Australia looks ahead, the team faces a transition period with younger talents like Cameron Green stepping up. Hazlewood suggested that while there will be changes, the shift will not be drastic, given the experience still present in the squad. "There might be a couple of changes, but a lot of the guys still play in franchise cricket... It’ll be a slow change."

David Warner's departure marks the end of an era for Australian cricket. His explosive batting, competitive spirit, and remarkable achievements have left an indelible mark on the sport. As the team moves forward, they will do so carrying the legacy of one of Australia's greatest cricketers.