Australian cricket icon David Warner elated after recovering lost baggy green cap
Australia's esteemed David Warner is overjoyed as he is finally reunited with his cherished 'baggy green' hat after days of anxious anticipation
David Warner had a nerve-wracking few days, but he was finally reunited with his beloved baggy green hat. After reaching out on social media for assistance in locating his iconic cap, Warner shared on Friday that it had been located.
"I am thrilled and grateful to have my baggy back in my possession. As any cricketer can attest, the cap holds a special significance and I will treasure it for the rest of my days," said the 37-year-old in an Instagram video.
"I am deeply appreciative of all those who played a role in its recovery - including the Qantas team, the freight company, the hotel, and our own team management."
"It's such a relief as we approach the final days. I'm truly grateful, so thank you all."
For those who may not know, a baggy green is a cap that has been given to Australian Test cricketers for over a hundred years in a long-standing tradition.
The iconic symbol of the sport, these hats hold significant value as well. Prior to his passing in 2022, former Australian spinner Shane Warne managed to sell his for over a million Australian dollars ($676,000). When the opening batsman's hat went missing during transit on the national carrier Qantas, Warner sought help on social media.
The loss of the cap couldn't have happened at a more inconvenient time - Warner had intended to wear it as he entered the Sydney Cricket Ground for the last Test match of his career.
"Somebody removed my backpack from my luggage... and inside the backpack was my baggy green. That's very meaningful to me. It's something that I really want to have back," Warner expressed.
Pakistan captain Shan Masood heard about the player's situation and urged the Australian government to launch a nationwide search. Unfortunately, the hat was not found before the first day of the Test in Sydney, and Warner had to wear a replacement cap for his final match.
Warner bats during day two of the Test match against Pakistan.
Darrian Traynor/Getty Images
The left-hander announced his retirement from Test and one-day international cricket ahead of the Pakistan encounter; it is his 112th Test match for Australia.
In what was likely his penultimate innings for Australia, Warner was out for 34 on day two of the Test in Sydney.
CNNs Andrew McNicol contributed to this report.
