Jonny Bairstow will not continue his resting period in The Hundred despite playing in 4 tournaments throughout the season. Bairstow spoke out about his Test team exclusion. He said constant travel wore him down. This year’s six-month cricket schedule exhausted him. It’s his first public comment since losing his spot in the England Test squad.
Bairstow acknowledged the impact of non-stop touring. He played in the 2023 World Cup, followed by the Test Series against India and IPL 2024. Bairstow’s last game was in the T20 World Cup 2024. He linked his performance dip to travel fatigue. The cricketer opened up about challenges faced on the road.
“It was a much needed break” Jonny says
Despite challenges, Bairstow reaffirmed his commitment to England cricket. However, he admitted that juggling all formats plus IPL was demanding. The cricketer made sacrifices to maintain his busy schedule. After the T20 World Cup, he welcomed a much-needed break.
Before The Hundred tournament began, Bairstow rested to recharge. Throughout this period, he balanced his love for cricket with the need for rest. Nevertheless, Bairstow still values his England career despite recent setbacks.
“It was a much-needed break, to be honest with you,” Bairstow told the BBC after Welsh Fire’s eight-wicket win over Manchester Originals at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
“It was nice to spend a bit of time at home, get away from cricket, do normal things, catch up with the family – and not slip over,” referring to the leg injury which threatened his career two years ago.
“I had the best part of seven months away from home” Bairstow adds
Bairstow uniquely played in four major cricket events last year. First, the 50-over World Cup, then India Tests, followed by IPL and T20 World Cup.
Despite a brilliant IPL century, his form was inconsistent. He scored only two fifties in the 50-over World Cup. In Tests, he couldn’t surpass 40 runs. Finally, his T20 World Cup performance varied. This packed schedule likely affected his overall form.
“I had the best part of seven months away from home since January. I had five nights at home in my own bed until three weeks ago,” Bairstow said. “That’s the scheduling of the game. That’s being lucky enough to be a part of all three formats and that’s the thing you have to sacrifice, time at home.” He added.
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