England’s Jonny Bairstow has finally addressed his exclusion from the Test team. The wicketkeeper-batsman did not make the squad for the current three-match Test series against the West Indies. England selectors opted to give young wicketkeeper Jamie Smith a chance, leading to Bairstow and Ben Foakes being dropped. Many are speculating that this could signal the end of Bairstow’s Test career, especially given his recent struggles across formats.
Just two seasons ago, Bairstow was a key figure in England’s ‘Bazball’ era, scoring four centuries in five innings during 2022. However, his form declined following a broken leg from a golf accident. Although he returned to the team, he has struggled to regain his previous top form.
Earlier this year, Jonny Bairstow faced difficulties scoring runs during the five-match Test series in India. Although he had several opportunities, he couldn’t make the most of them, finishing the series with 238 runs from 10 innings without a half-century or century.
Addressing his exclusion from the Test team for the first time, Bairstow mentioned that he welcomed the break, citing the demanding schedule that included the Test series in India, the IPL, and the T20 World Cup.
“It was a much-needed break, to be honest with you,” Jonny Bairstow told the BBC. “It was nice to spend a bit of time at home, get away from cricket, do normal things, catch up with the family – and not slip over.”
“I had the best part of seven months away from home since January. I had five nights at home in my own bed until three weeks ago. That’s the scheduling of the game. That’s being lucky enough to be a part of all three formats and that’s the thing you have to sacrifice, time at home.
“At the same time, when you are away for that period of time, it takes its toll… those are the sacrifices that you make, so to have a bit of home time and to have a special little period was pretty awesome,” he added.
All I want to do is play for England: Jonny Bairstow
Speaking further, Jonny Bairstow responded to Rob Key’s recent comments about him. After the squad was announced for the West Indies series. the England Men’s managing director had said that Bairstow would have to regain the form that he was in a couple of years ago to earn a recall from the Test side.
“Jonny just needs to get back to what he was a couple of years ago. Generally, his form – in all formats – has just been going slightly in the wrong direction,” Key had said.
Replying to the comments, Jonny Bairstow made it clear that he is determined to reclaim his place in the team.
“Well, you don’t need to ask me that, do you? I think you know me well enough, and you’ve known me for long enough to know that all I want to do is play for England, and that’s end of,” said Bairstow when Michael Vaughan asked him if he wants to return to the Test team.
