David Warner smashes double-ton in 100th Test as Australia put South Africa to the sword at the MCG
- Nasri Alexander
- 27 December 2022
David Warner smashed a double-century in his 100th Test as Australia drilled home their advantage over South Africa on the second day of the second Test at the MCG.
Warner struck exactly 200 off 254 balls before limping off with injury but not before putting the Aussies well in control as they went to stumps on 386-3, an overall lead of 197.
It was the 36-year-old Warner's 25th Test ton and he became just the second player to hit a double-century in his 100th Test, joining England's Joe Root with teh special milestone.
The hosts resumed on Tuesday with the total on 45-1 knowing that they could take a big step towards clinching the three-match series after they bowled the Proteas out for just 189 on day one.
Warner and Marnus Labuschagne resumed at the crease but the latter was run-out for 14 after a comical mix-up with his partner.
Steve Smith joined Warner and the experienced pair added 239 for the third wicket before fast bowler Anrich Nortje broke the partnership having Smith caught in the gully for 85.
Warner continued on his merry way though and reached his 200 in the final session that included 16 fours and two sixes.
The left-handed batter immediately left the field upon reaching the milestone with what seemed like severe cramp.
On a swelteringly hot day n Melbourne, Australia also lost Cameron Green to injury as the lanky allrounder was forced to retire hurt with his score on six after taking a blow to the finger.
Travis Head (48 not out) and Alex Carey (9 not out) took Australia to the close with an unbeaten stand of 23 as the home team saw out a dominant day.
