I’ll be trying to play all formats for as long as possible: Jonny Bairstow
In the wake of Ben Stokes’ early retirement from ODIs, English batter Jonny Bairstow has committed to continue playing all formats in the international arena. Perhaps one of the most effective batters in the England team right now, Bairstow has committed himself to the game and he does not see himself taking any such decision at the moment as stated that he looks to play more and more.
Bairstow has been in fine touch lately. After a decent stint at the IPL 2022, he went on to score multiple centuries for his side in the three-match Test series against New Zealand. England then faced India for a one-off Test, and Bairstow bagged two centuries, one in each innings, which helped the team win the game.
“Naturally, there are challenges. But I’ll be trying to play all the formats for as long as possible. There might be a time when, for different reasons, you do have to make a decision, but in the near future, I don’t see myself making a choice. I’ll be going all out for as long as I can,” Bairstow told Sky Cricket.
I’m loving being a part of all three squads: Jonny Bairstow
The timing of Bairstow’s remarks is significant since England Test captain Ben Stokes said in his farewell speech that he could no longer play all three formats with the same level of effort. That came as a shocker for many given Stokes’ age, but the all-rounder had previously taken a mental health break too. However, Bairstow claimed that he enjoys being a member of each squad.
“I’m loving being a part of all three squads. They are all different in themselves, and it is great to be a part of each one. It is exciting. There is a freshness when you go into each one; there are new faces and a new energy because it is a new format,” Bairstow said.
White-ball skipper Jos Buttler had previously stated that he doesn’t see himself rejoining the Test squad. Many think Buttler already has a lot on his shoulders with batting, wicketkeeping, and leading the white-ball teams. For England fans who have been waiting a long time to witness a full-strength England squad in all formats of the game, Bairstow’s comment is a welcome change.
