England confirm squad for fourth Ashes test with Jonny Bairstow decision made

11 July 2023 , 10:22

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England confirm squad for fourth Ashes test with Jonny Bairstow decision made

Jonny Bairstow has been given a huge vote of confidence by skipper Ben Stokes and will keep the gloves for the fourth Test at Old Trafford.

Bairstow has come in for some hefty criticism in some quarters following an indifferent series behind the stumps so far where he has dropped seven Aussie batters at a cost of more than 140 runs, with the odd missed stumping to boot too.

But England are sticking to the formula that saw them reduced the gap to 2-1 following a three-wicket win in the third Test at Headingley, where Bairstow had arguably his worst game yet.

There have been calls for Ben Foakes to return to the wicket-keeper position and leave Bairstow with just the batting to focus on as he did so well last summer, but neither Stokes not coach Brendon McCullum are interested in making changes in that department.

There may be a change to the bowling line up in Manchester where James Anderson will be fit and raring to take his place back in the team on his home ground. The 40-year-old has admitted though, that there will be no hard feelings if Stokes and co. go in a different direction.

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He said: "They will pick the strongest team to compete with Australia that particular week. I am completely happy with whatever they decide.

"I know I am not guaranteed to play the next Test and I will completely understand if they want to stick with the winning team. The selection side is out of my hands. I just make sure that I am in a good place and ready to play."

Jonny Bairstow retains his place despite a disappointing series so far

While England are sweating on the fitness of Ollie Robinson as he battles with a back spasm in his bid to be fit for the game at Old Trafford. Robinson is understood to be make good progress from his injury and is expected to be available for selection next Wednesday.

Dan Lawrence remains the spare batter in the side with Josh Tongue also keen to stake his claim to a spot in the final eleven depending on how the bowlers from Headingley shape up fitness wise.

Mark Wood was Player of the Match in Leeds, but there are question marks over his long-term availability after a lengthy lay-off. But Wood, who claimed match figures of 7-100 in his test return is eager to continue peppering with the Aussies with his lightning fast bowling.

Asked if he would be ready for Old Trafford, he said: "Absolutely. Lightning strikes twice, eh?"

England Men's Fourth Ashes Test Squad: Ben Stokes (c), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood

Dean Wilson