Watch: Warner's reacts to 'He's got sandpaper in his hands'
What's the story
Australian cricketer David Warner, who served a 12-month ban for a ball-tampering scandal against South Africa last year, was subjected to taunts by the English crowd. This happened on Day 3 of the first Ashes Test at Edgbaston. Warner, who was fielding in the deep in front of the Hollies Stand, knew what was coming his way. And here is how the incident unfolded.
Target
Aussie trio subjected to taunts by English fans
The boos from the crowd at Edgbaston have been coming right since Day 1. Besides Warner, the likes of Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft were also targeted by the fans. Notably, the three were involved in the infamous sandpaper scandal. When Smith hit a superb century in the first innings, the fans were silenced for a while, but they kept targeting Warner and Bancroft.
Chants
English fans target Warner near the boundary rope
On Saturday, while Warner was fielding, the crowd sang, "He has got sandpaper in his hands." Majority of the fans were all dressed up, ranging from cardinals to costumes of English footballers to even US President Donald Trump. Many would have thought that Warner would keep quiet and not pay attention. But Warner's reaction left everyone smiling in the end.
Reaction
How Warner reacted to the antics
Warner, who was being booed ferociously by the crowd at Edgbaston on Day three, managed to win the applause of spectators. He played up to their antics after opening his palms to demonstrate that he wasn't holding any foreign object. He also turned out his pockets for their amusement and smiled. This incident went viral on social media.
Trio
Warner, Smith and Bancroft playing Ashes together
Warner and Smith served 12 months ban each and made their return with the ICC World Cup 2019. The southpaw had a great tournament and amassed 647 runs. Smith also chipped in with some useful knocks. Meanwhile, this is the first occasion where all three of Bancroft, Smith and Warner are playing. Bancroft served a nine-month ban and was included for the Ashes.
Performance
How have the three players performed at Edgbaston?
Bancroft has struggled since his return despite being in strong form leading up to the Ashes. He managed scores of 8 and 7 at Edgbaston. Warner also couldn't get going. The senior cricketer amassed 2 and 8 respectively. Smith, on the other hand, has enjoyed his time. After getting a fluent 144, he is unbeaten on 46 in the second innings.