Twenty20 specialist Warner turns over to new 'patient' leaf

Roseau (Dominica, West Indies), April 25 (ANI): Former Twenty20 specialist and batting tyro David Warner is patiently evolving his game away from the glare of Australia.

The man who burst onto the Test scene last summer with a match-winning century in Perth, is now trying to become a more resilient batsman who is better equipped to handle all aspects of his role as an opener.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Warner is quickly learning he can make important contributions even when he is not scoring freely.

Leading up to this Test, Warner's longest innings this series lasted 55 balls, limiting him to cameo roles. But on Monday, he dug in for nearly 3 hours - his longest stay at the crease apart from his two tons - to grind a half-century that was as important as it was ugly.

Not able to use the fast pace he is accustomed to on Australian wickets or being fully rewarded for his shots by a lightning quick outfield, Warner was forced to find a new way to prosper.

''It's something Darren Sammy [West Indies captain] reminded me of out there, it's not the way I play, but they're the kind of wickets where it's all about patience,'' said Warner, who made 50 off 136 balls.

He added: ''I'm still learning that, learning the game. This is my ninth Test, and my first tour out of Australia."

Warner further said: ''In Australia it's coming onto the bat a lot easier, they're running away for four, especially in Perth, it's only basically Adelaide Oval and the MCG where you really have to run for your shots."

He added: ''I was hitting good shots to mid-off but they weren't going anywhere off the square because it seemed a little dusty surface where the ball doesn't kick on. Whereas in Australia it skids off the square. They're the things I've got to keep in mind, particularly our running between the wickets.''

Warner said developing more patience was his next goal as it would not only allow him to play the epic innings that Michael Clarke and Ricky Ponting both produced against India at the SCG, but also leave him better placed to handle conditions abroad. (ANI)