Aaron Finch backs watchful David Warner

London: David Warner may not have been his usual self in some of Australia’s World Cup games despite leading the run chart, but skipper Aaron Finch on Tuesday backed his opening partner, saying the pitches used “demanded respect”.

Finch (100) and Warner (53) added yet another century stand to lay the foundation for Australia’s 64-run victory over England at the Lord’s.

“People are saying it’s not the Warner of old, but the wickets we’ve got in this tournament have demanded respect. He looked at his best today,” Finch said.

“There’s plenty to suggest that the way to go about it is the right way to do it. You’re looking to be positive, but he got us off to a good start. We’re confident with what we’ve got, and we’ve won five World Cups in our history.”

On reaching the last four, Finch said, “That’s the first part ticked off, which is a really nice feeling.”