Former Australia opener David Warner has lashed out at South African cricket fans for staying away from the Proteas’ Test series against Australia, questioning how the longest format can thrive in front of empty stands.

Warner took to X on Tuesday to question the lack of support for the longest format during the Proteas’ ongoing Test series against Australia.

“We keep hearing how important Test cricket is, but where are the fans in South Africa? Empty stands, no atmosphere, and we’re supposed to believe the format is thriving?” Warner wrote.

“You can’t keep calling Test cricket the pinnacle of the game if no one turns up to watch it. Harsh reality, but someone has to say it. Pathetic.”

We keep hearing how important Test cricket is, but where are the fans in South Africa? Empty stands, no atmosphere, and we’re supposed to believe the format is thriving? You can’t keep calling Test cricket the pinnacle of the game if no one turns up to watch it. Harsh reality, but someone has to say it. Pathetic

— David Warner (@davidwarner31) October 20, 2026