‘It’s something he’s done quite a bit in the T20 side previously as well’ – Jos Buttler backs Jonny Bairstow to come good at No. 4

Jonny Bairstow (Photo Source: Twitter)

Jonny Bairstow, originally slated to open in the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup which ultimately saw England clinch the title, unfortunately had to forgo participation due to an unexpected injury sustained during a game of golf. As the current edition unfolds in the West Indies and the USA, Bairstow would be undoubtedly eager and determined to make his mark.

During a press conference on Saturday, English skipper Jos Buttler underscored the responsibilities that come with his leadership role, emphasizing the necessity to consider the team’s welfare as a whole. Buttler likened Jonny Bairstow’s potential contribution at the No. 4 position to his extensive experience in that role over the years.

The captain highlighted the right-hander’s familiarity with batting in that position in T20Is, suggesting that should the need arise due to early wickets falling in the powerplay, Bairstow’s adaptability and power-hitting prowess, combined with his proficiency against spin in the middle overs, would likely solidify his claim to the No. 4 spot in England’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign.

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“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 Buttler, in a press conference on Saturday, June 1.

It’s actually a compliment Jos and Motty think I’ve got the skillset to bat at four: Bairstow

During another press conference, the 34-year-old Bairstow, drawing upon his ample experience of batting at number two besides his role as an opener, remarked that he has demonstrated versatility across various batting positions. He expressed a sense of modest satisfaction and regarded the affirmations from Buttler and the head coach of the white-ball setup, Matthew Mott, as flattering compliments, acknowledging his adeptness to occupy the slot at two-drop.

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“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,” added Bairstow.