David Warner will finish his farewell Test with his cherished baggy green caps, after it was at last returned following a nationwide search.

The retiring opener’s most prized cricketing possession was stolen from his luggage in the days leading up to the Sydney Test, with Warner taking to Instagram to plea for its return.

He was forced to begin the match with a replacement cap – but the 37-year old had happier news to share on Friday morning.

“I am pleased and relieved that I have got my baggy back in my hands,” he said in an Instagram video.

“Any cricketer knows how special that cap is and I’ll cherish this for the rest of my life.

“I’m very grateful to all those involved in locating it, the Qantas team, the freight company, the hotel and our own team management.

“It’s a load off my shoulders going into the last couple of days so I really appreciate it. Thank you all.”

The news comes as a boost to Warner after a disappointing start to his final Test, with the opener visibly frustrated after falling for 34 in the first session on Day 2.

He was given a life on 20 after Pakistan’s latest dropped sitter – debutant Saim Ayub following Abdullah Shafique’s example from the SCG and shelling a simple catch at first slip, having been moved into the cordon just minutes prior due to regular slipper Salman Ali Agha’s toilet break – but couldn’t cash in.

Australia will resume on Day 3, Jane McGrath Day at the SCG, at 2/116 in reply to Pakistan’s 313.