Jos Buttler Shows Confidence In Jonny Bairstow Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2024

During the 2022 T20 World Cup, England's plans to have Jonny Bairstow open were derailed by an unexpected injury sustained during a golf game. However, as the 2024 edition unfolds in the West Indies and the USA, Bairstow is undoubtedly eager to leave his mark on the tournament. In a recent press conference, English skipper Jos Buttler emphasized the importance of considering the team's welfare as a whole. He particularly highlighted Bairstow's potential contribution at the No. 4 position, citing his extensive experience in that role over the years.

Buttler pointed out that Bairstow's familiarity with batting at No. 4 in T20Is makes him a strong contender for the position. He noted that should the need arise due to early wickets falling in the powerplay, Bairstow's adaptability and power-hitting prowess, along with his proficiency against spin in the middle overs, could solidify his claim to the No. 4 spot in England's T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

"I think for every player in the team, it's about trying to read the situation of the game and play accordingly. I think Jonny's got the experience and the game to play that role for us at No. 4. It's something he's done quite a bit in the T20 side previously as well, and he's got great variety in his game. So, he's used to batting in the powerplay should that situation arrive at No. 4, but he's also got experience and power, and is a good player of spin throughout the middle phase as well," shared Jos Buttler in a recent press conference. 

In a subsequent press conference, 34-year-old Bairstow, drawing upon his extensive experience of batting at number two in addition to his role as an opener, noted his versatility across various batting positions. He expressed modest satisfaction, considering affirmations from Buttler and the head coach of the white-ball setup, Matthew Mott, as flattering compliments. Bairstow acknowledged his adeptness to occupy the slot at two-drop, emphasizing his readiness to adapt to the team's needs.

"I've batted all over. It doesn't really matter to me where I bat. It's actually a compliment that Jos [Buttler] and Motty [Matthew Mott] think I've got the skillset to bat at four," stated Jonny Bairstow.