Former Australian opener David Warner has endorsed a batting order reshuffle for the upcoming second Test against India in Adelaide, advocating for Usman Khawaja's return to the top and Travis Head moving back to the middle order. Speaking to reporters on December 12, 2025, ahead of captaining Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League, Warner argued that reinstating Khawaja as opener would maximize Head's aggressive impact lower down, presenting a tougher challenge for opponents like England in future series.

Warner praised Head's willingness to open in Khawaja's injury-enforced absence during the series opener but emphasized that the middle order is Head's natural and most destructive position. "Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down," Warner said, adding that Head batting against a newer ball later in the innings would be "a worse result for England." He highlighted Head's selflessness in stepping up but noted the player's own acknowledgment that opening belongs to Khawaja.

The comments come amid Australia's strong position in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, leading 1-0 after a dominant victory in Perth. Khawaja, sidelined for the first Test due to injury, is expected to be available for the day-night Adelaide Oval clash starting December 14, 2025. Selectors face decisions on balancing experience with emerging talent.

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Warner cautioned against a long-term shift of Head to opening, warning that failure could create dual problems—repositioning Head and finding a new opener. He described the situation as a "headache" for selectors led by George Bailey, stressing the risks of disrupting a successful middle-order dynamic lacking a similar aggressor previously.

Praising young options, Warner specifically backed 31-year-old South Australian Jake Weatherald for potential inclusion, urging faith in experience. He also suggested Matt Renshaw as a ready-made fallback, noting Renshaw's prior Test exposure would allow seamless reintegration if needed.

Warner's insights reflect broader discussions on Australia's batting depth as the team prepares for the Adelaide pink-ball Test and eyes the 2025-26 Ashes. His views underscore the strategic value of preserving proven roles while integrating youth prudently.

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