Jonny Bairstow explains why he has not moved up to No 6 despite Ben Stokes absence
Jonny Bairstow has explained why he has remained at number seven for the first Ashes Test in Australia despite the absence of England all-rounder Ben Stokes.
Wicketkeeper-batsman Bairstow was widely expected to take Stokes’ No 6 position with England’s vice-captain still at home following his arrest on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.
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But Moeen Ali, who batted at number eight throughout the summer, has been promoted two positions for the opening Test at the Gabba.
Asked whether the switch was down to his ability to bat with the tail, Bairstow told BT Sport: ‘Yeah, I think that’s the reason to be honest with you.
‘We’re really lucky that in at No 6-7-8, it doesn’t really matter which way round the guys go.’
Bairstow was speaking at lunch on day one of the opening match in Brisbane as England reached 59-1, with Mark Stoneman and James Vince recovering from the early dismissal of Alastair Cook.
‘We were happy to bat first, it was the right decision,’ Bairstow added. ‘It could have gone the other way for us this morning but to see the guys get into a good rhythm was a good sign.
Ashes schedule – the key dates
First Test: November 23-27 (Brisbane)
Second Test: December 2-6 (Adelaide)
Third Test: December 14-18 (Perth)
Fourth Test: December 25-29 (Melbourne)
Fifth Test: January 3-7 (Sydney)
‘The mood in the camp was very laid ball and relaxed, there was a lot said about the opposition but hopefully we can build on our start.’
Stokes, 26, may not be with his England team-mates but he at least sent a video message to Joe Root’s side shortly before the first ball was bowled.
‘With the Ashes starting very soon, I just wanted to send a message to all the boys in Australia and wish them all the best for the first Test match,’ he said.
‘All the coaches as well… I know how much preparation goes into it to make sure everyone is ready to go.
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‘I also want to wish the fans who have made the long journey to Australia all the best.
‘Hopefully we can give you a good result, I’ll be at home watching and following the lads and hopefully they do really well.’
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