'Take the surfboard off his front leg': David Warner's sledge towards Joe Root reignites long-standing Ashes feud

David Warner has lit the fuse for the upcoming Ashes series, throwing a cheeky barb at England star Joe Root regarding his issues against Australia.

The 38-year-old retired from Test cricket well over a year ago, but that didn't stop him from taking a swipe at Root in an interview with BBC Sport.

Warner - who is set to play in The Hundred for London Spirit - was quizzed on this summer's five-game series between the rival cricketing nations.

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In response, the former Australian opener fired a shot at Root and believes that his well-documented shortcomings against rangy quick Josh Hazlewood could be something his former teammates look to exploit on home soil.

"The big anchor there is Rooty, who is yet to score a hundred in Australia," Warner said.

"Josh Hazlewood tends to have his number quite a lot.

"He will have to take the surfboard off his front leg."

The comments from Warner were quickly picked by England great Stuart Broad, who took to social media to reveal the statistics behind the claims.

"I've never heard England's best ever batters front pad called a surfboard," he said via X, accompanied by three laughing emojis.

"Just for clarity. Hazlewood has got Rooty LBW in Test cricket three times. Three."

Warner and Broad had a long-standing rivalry on the international stage, so it came as no surprise to see the retired English bowler fire back at his comments.

While many believe the Aussies will retain the urn once again, Warner conceded that the side's shaky top-order could open the door slightly for the tourists.

"It all comes down to the bowlers," Warner said.

"If the English bowlers can put a dent in the Australia top order, then they will come into the contest."

The first Test will begin on November 21 at Perth's Optus Stadium.