Middle-order batsman Jonny Bairstow praised the fielders for their excellent work ahead of the final Test between England and India. Jonny Bairstow also admired the scenic beauty of the Dharamshala site and described it as one of the most picturesque in the world.
The fifth Test of the ongoing series will be held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, starting Thursday, March 7. Both teams will compete for 12 World Test Championship (WTC) points as the series winner has already been decided. .
Dharamshala, before the next match, had only hosted one Test previously, which was a decider between India and Australia. In that match, Team India emerged victorious against Australia and clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2017.
One of the most picturesque places in the world – Jonny Bairstow
At the pre-match press conference, Jonny Bairstow he mentioned that the pitch for the upcoming game had previously been used in a Ranji Trophy match.
“It’s a field used from the Ranji Trophy last month…let’s see. “The ground crew has done an incredible job with the course considering the weather we’ve had here.” Bairstow said.
“They have done a great job with the gardens here in Dharamsala. You can see it well. The land is one of the most picturesque places in the world.” he added.
Dharamshala, situated at a height of 1,457 meters above sea level, is a highly sought-after destination within the country. Snow-capped mountains and meandering streams surround the place, enhancing its natural charm.
There could be a surprise barbecue – Jonny Bairstow
Bairstow humorously mentioned the possibility of a team “surprise barbecue” to mark their milestone of 100 Test internationals. He acknowledged the emotional significance of reaching this milestone and expressed his gratitude for the achievement.
“Playing 100 Tests means a lot. There might be a surprise team barbecue… I’m kidding.” Bairstow said.
Bairstow is set to become the 17th English cricketer to reach the 100 Test match milestone. Having debuted in 2012, the Yorkshire batsman scored 5974 runs in 99 Test matches at a decent average of 36.43, with 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries.
I’ve been feeling good – Jonny Bairstow
Jonny Bairstow revealed his constant efforts and stated that he remained mentally prepared and focused throughout the series, despite the unfavorable results.
“I felt good, but the races haven’t come. I have been in the zone in every game of the series so far.” Bairstow further said.
The 34-year-old batsman came into the series with high expectations but has not fulfilled them. Bairstow has amassed just 170 runs in eight innings at an average of just over 21, with a highest score of 38.
In the ongoing Test series, only Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett and Joe Root from the group england team have scored centuries, while Ben Foakes and Bairstow are yet to reach half-centuries. Despite leading the team, Ben Stokes has also struggled to put up significant scores.
Also Read: Was MS Dhoni the best in India?, says David Lloyd as he backs Jonny Bairstow ahead of 100th Test.