David Warner drops payload of explosives on England before Ashes

Former Australian opener David Warner has issued a warning to England, led by Ben Stokes, ahead of the 2025-26 Ashes series, set to take place later this year. The left-handed batter stated that Australia’s focus is on winning the upcoming series, while England would be playing for a “moral victory.”

With the first Ashes Test in Perth just over a month away, tensions are already rising between Australia and England. The English cricket team, which has not won a Test in Australia since 2011, is facing scrutiny over their “Bazball” approach, which is expected to be a key talking point during the series.

They're Playing For a Moral Victory - David Warner

David Warner, who predicted a 3-1 series win for Australia if Pat Cummins misses the first Ashes Test in Perth, took a jab at England ahead of the series.

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Speaking at Kayo Sports and Fox Sports’ Summer of Cricket launch in Parramatta, Warner stated that Australia are determined to claim the Ashes, adding that England appear focused on achieving only a “moral victory.”

“The Australian way because we’re playing for the Ashes and they’re playing for a moral victory. There’s your headline,” Warner said.

It was the English players who first used the term “moral victory” during the 2023 India series. Zak Crawley and Harry Brook had jokingly stated that a draw could be considered a moral victory after dominating matches, leading to light-hearted banter within the cricket community.

Privilege to Share a Change Room with Ben Stokes - David Warner

David Warner advised Australia not to provoke England captain Ben Stokes. He emphasized that Stokes is a formidable cricketer and an excellent leader. Warner added that avoiding unnecessary confrontation with Stokes could be beneficial for the Australian team.

“I had the fortunate privilege to share a change room with him when he was younger and he has evolved into a serious cricketer and a fantastic leader,” Warner continued.

“If we can sort of not poke that bear and get him up and about, I think that will help the Australians enormously," he added.

Do Not Want to See Some Bantering Out - David Warner

Warner said that he enjoys seeing on-field banter and competitive energy between players, but added that Ben Stokes should not be involved in such exchanges. He also expressed hope that Australian players take the lead in generating that intensity.

“But I do want to see some bantering out on the field and I want to see them going at each other a little bit - obviously not at Stokes - because that is what creates that energy and involvement in the game," Warner opined.

“I think that is where the war of words comes out. Generally it is someone like myself who is starting it, but I want to see someone else in the (Australian) camp start something, whether it is Heady or someone else.”

The Ashes series will begin in November, and excitement is building. Fans can expect a competitive and intense contest, with England looking to challenge Australia at every opportunity.

Also read: Pat Cummins keeps England guessing of his Ashes future