Australian opener David Warner says his double century in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa holds great significance after he faced scrutiny about his form in the lead-up to the match.
Warner had not scored a Test century in almost three years prior to the MCG clash, which Australia won by an innings and 182 runs to wrap up a series victory against the Proteas.
Playing his 100th Test, Warner posted his 25th century in the five-day arena, despite having to battle severe cramping during his innings.
The inspiring effort — which saw him retire, hurt, on 200 before later finishing his innings — was enough to earn the 36-year-old the Mullagh Medal as the player of the match.
Warner said his performance in Melbourne meant a lot to him and to his family.
"I think that one was very special," he told ABC Sport.
"You talk about having your back up against the wall … the whole talk [before the Test] was just about me.
"It takes a lot of pressure off the other players and I like taking the heat off the other guys."
Warner said he never considered he was in a form slump prior to his superb knock at the MCG.
"For me, it's always been about being out of runs," he said.
"It's never been about being out of form because I'm seeing the ball as well as I can and I'm trying my best."
Warner said his double century was built on backing his attacking instincts against the Proteas' fast bowlers.
"I think, when I'm looking to score square of the wicket, I'm in a much better defensive mindset," he said.
"So, for me, attacking is my best form of defence and I was able to get [the Proteas' fast bowlers] off their length and start playing square of the wicket."
There has been media speculation about whether Warner will retire from Test cricket inside the next 12 months, given the taxing nature of playing all three formats of the game.
However, Warner said he was not considering retirement just yet, while also revealing he wanted to play in the 2024 men's T20 World Cup.
"For me, it's about trying to put my best foot forward and trying to perform as best as I can for the team," he said.
Australia has an unassailable 2-0 series lead against the Proteas ahead of the final Test at the SCG, starting on January 4.
