Cricket fans lament the 'end of an era' after David Warner's retirement from international cricket... but some reveal why they are HAPPY the controversial batter is walking away

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Cricket fans have taken to social media in their droves following David Warner's final game in international cricket.

Warner, 37, has been a constant presence in Australia's international sides across all formats for the past decade, with the batter viewed as a truly three-dimensional player.

However, his career has not been without controversy. Warner was banned from cricket in 2018 following his role in the ball tampering scandal - a nightmare that followed him for the rest of his career.

But he bounced back from that saga to finish his career on his terms, enjoying a farewell tour during the Test summer of 2023-24 before eyeing the fairytale ending at the Twenty20 World Cup in the United States and West Indies.

That did not go to plan as Australia fell short in the Super Eight, with Afghanistan's win over Bangladesh sending Mitchell Marsh's side home.

Fans took to X - formerly known as social media - to hail Warner's impact, with his performances in T20 in particular a major factor in driving the sport to heedy heights.

'One of the greatest for Australia,' one fan posted.

Another said: 'End of an era.'

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A third fan commented: 'Greatest all format opener of this generation without a doubt.'

'What a player,' said a fourth fan. 'Thank you David Warner.' 

But some fans shared their relief that Australian cricket can finally move on. having been engrossed in the Warner farewell tour since last year's Ashes.

'Never ending farewell finally comes to an end,' said one fan. 'Seven-plus months.'

 'Thank god the sideshow has finally come to an end,' another fan commented.

A third fan pointed out: 'He's had a million farewells already.' 

This was a long way from the fanfare that went with Warner's last Test at the SCG, which included an almost week-long saga about his missing Baggy Green cap.

Some fans praised Warner, while others were relieved Australia can move on

Nor was it anything like his ODI exit, where he celebrated a second World Cup title.

Instead, this was in front of a half-full Daren Sammy Stadium in St Lucia, as Australia fought to keep their T20 World Cup alive.

Back home, his dismissal came at 2.40am on a Tuesday on the east coast, hardly prime-time viewing for even the most dedicated cricket fan.