IPL 2019 | Local fans inspire me and I enjoy playing in front of them, says David Warner

David Warner has been a vital cog of the Sunrisers Hyderabad since his debut for them in the 2014 season. He has scored 2733 runs for them, has won the Orange Cap twice and even led them to their maiden title in 2016. The Orange Army has been a formidable side in the Indian Premier League and Warner has credited the fans for the team’s performance.

"One thing that inspires me is the local fans (in Hyderabad), they are amazing. We try and put on a good show,” said Warner, reported IANS.

Rajasthan Royals’ Sanju Samson scored an outstanding century to take his team’s total to 198 after a slow start. The young batsman even briefly held the Orange Cap, prior to Warner’s fifty in the next innings.

“We didn't get off to a good start (the loss in the first match), a serious innings from Sanju and full credit to him. He came out and played really well. He allowed himself time and the wicket got better. Actually I didn't think it was a 200 wicket. We have played on similar wickets where if you bowl that hard length it is hard to bat," stated the former SRH captain.

Warner attacked from the very first ball and went on to stitch a century before being dismissed for 69 off just 37 balls. Jonny Bairstow had only faced nine balls at the end of the powerplay period but went on to score 45 off 28 balls. The quickfire opening stand was very crucial for SRH, and it was the reason that they were able to chase the total rather easily.

"Me and Jonny have partnered really well since Kolkata. There have been a few hiccups with him trying to get off the mark, I have been hogging the strike a little bit, but over the years I have been held back a little bit,” expressed the 32-year-old.

The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium at Hyderabad has been the second home for Warner after Sydney, thereby, he understands the wicket reasonably well. 

"We know this ground pretty well. We know the dimensions well. There has been a breeze from one side for the last two days but tonight it wasn't there. You have to be calculative with your batting. I enjoy playing in front of this crowd. They are fantastic," added the former Australia vice captain.

At the moment, Warner is the top run scorer in the tournament with 154 runs and was delighted to be in possession of the Orange Cap.

"It is Orange (Cap), Sunrisers, why not," he candidly signed off.