‘The selection decisions will be taken out of my hands……’ – Jonny Bairstow opens up on retaining his role as England’s wicketkeeper in Test series vs India

England star cricketer Jonny Bairstow has recently opened up about retaining his role as the wicketkeeper batter in the five matches of the Test series against India scheduled to commence on January 25 in Hyderabad. Notably, Jos Buttler-led England suffered the T20I and ODI series losses against the West Indies. In addition, the English side had an awful edition of the ODI World Cup 2023; however, they somehow managed to qualify for the Champions Trophy 2025.

Meanwhile, Jonny Bairstow is not sure whether he will be the main wicketkeeper in the upcoming Test series against India, as Ben Foakes also named himself in the Test squad. The 34-year-old cricketer reveals that he hasn’t talked about retaining his role with anyone as he currently focuses on his strength. In addition, the right-handed batter reveals that he is enjoying his time with his friends and family members ahead of his India tour.

“I’ve not spoken to anyone about that. As long as I’m over there, as long as I’m fit and firing, the selection decisions will be taken out of my hands. But look, I’m fairly happy with where I’m at, whether I’m keeping, batting or whatever it is. I’ve been getting my ankle right, just training in the gym pretty hard, and catching up with friends and family. Having come back from the injury that I had, it was a pretty full-on summer… it’s been great to just have a bit of a refresh, have a bit of time with the family and just to make sure the ankle is as good as it can be,” Jonny Bairstow said in an interview with Sky Sports.

We know how strong India are: Jonny Bairstow

The Bradford-born cricketer heaps praise on Team India’s pace attack while calling them dominant over the English setup. Meanwhile, England has already announced their squad for the Test series, while Team India will announce it soon.

“We’ve seen how potent their seam attack has been recently. Look, I’m sure the pitches will turn: it’s whether or not they’ll turn from day one. We know how strong they are,” he added further.