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As England prepares for a demanding five-match Test series against India, the pivotal question of who will take on the wicketkeeping responsibilities comes into focus.
Jonny Bairstow vs Ben Foakes
Jonny Bairstow, who assumed the role in all six Tests during the 2023 home summer, faces stiff competition within the squad, particularly with the return of Ben Foakes. Foakes, who delivered an exceptional performance with the gloves during their previous tour of India, is included in the 16-man squad.
Bairstow’s glovework in the Ashes 2023
Despite Bairstow’s improved performance with the gloves in the recent Ashes series, concluding with 23 catches and a stumping, the dynamic nature of the team and the unique challenges of wicketkeeping in India leave his role uncertain. England are embarking on a tour of India for a five-Test series scheduled between January and March. The team’s last Test tour to India in 2021 resulted in a 4-1 defeat, despite winning the first game of the series.
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Bairstow’s thoughts on the wicketkeeping position for India series
In an interview with Sky Sports before the tour, Bairstow mentioned that the decision on wicketkeeping has been delegated to the selectors, highlighting the good condition of his ankle.
“I’ve not spoken to anyone about that. As long as I’m over there, as long as I’m fit and firing, the selection decisions will be taken out of my hands. But look, I’m fairly happy with where I’m at, whether I’m keeping, batting or whatever it is. I’ve been getting my ankle right, just training in the gym pretty hard, catching up with friends and family,” Bairstow said.
England’s commitment to Bazball
Bairstow also expressed the team’s commitment to maintaining their entertaining style of cricket, often referred to as Bazball The first Test of the series is scheduled to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad.
“Look there’s been a lot of talk around Bazball and probably the majority of its from you guys. To be honest it’s a positive way of playing cricket. It’s a way in which we’re trying to entertain the people that are watching,” the 34-year-old concluded.
