Jonny Bairstow is struggling to be match for England’s two-Check collection in New Zealand in February after breaking his leg in a freak {golfing} accident in September.
It was initially thought Bairstow would possibly solely miss the remainder of 2022, and whereas England additionally journey to Bangladesh for a white-ball collection in March, it’s understood the likeliest date for his return is on the Indian Premier League later that month, when he hopes to renew ties with Punjab Kings.
Assuming Bairstow isn’t able to take the sector in opposition to New Zealand at Mount Maunganui on February 16, the gloves are set to stick with Ben Foakes, who missed the primary two Assessments in Pakistan via a combination of sickness and choice points, however reclaimed the wicketkeeping position from stand-in Ollie Pope, and on Sunday helped Harry Brook salvage England’s first innings throughout a sixth-wicket stand of 117.
Jonny Bairstow is in a race in opposition to time to be match for England’s two-Check New Zealand tour
Bairstow was among the many driving forces of England’s Bazball revolution throughout the summer season, crashing 589 runs from 578 balls in 5 innings – together with 4 a whole lot – in opposition to New Zealand and India. That made it six Check centuries in 2022, equalling essentially the most by an England participant in a calendar yr.
Had he not slipped whereas strolling to a tee field at Pannal golf membership close to Harrogate only some hours after being named in England’s T20 World Cup squad, breaking his left leg and dislocating his ankle, he would possibly now personal the report outright.
Given the success of each Brook and Pope in Pakistan, the eventual return of Bairstow will depart the selectors with a headache, with Foakes doubtlessly beneath strain as soon as extra.
The batsman (R) was one of many early proprietors of the aggressive model adopted by Ben Stokes (L) and Brendon McCullum
