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Ashes 2023 | 'They Can Say What They Want...,' Jonny Bairstow Slams His Critics

image-lkd14i0eJonny Bairstow during his knock of 99 (AP Photo)

England wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow shrugged off the criticism that he has received over the course of this Ashes series due to his poor glovework and lack of presence of mind at Lord’s, which resulted in a freak dismissal.

On a day when Bairstow finally turned up with the bat, the Yorkshireman was asked by the host broadcaster in the post-day interview to comment on his detractors.

He responded by saying that they are entitled to say what they want as it's a part of their job. When asked to respond about his dismissal at Lord’s- where he strolled down the track when the ball was still in play, only to be stumped by Alex Carey, Bairstow refused to give his opinion.

"They can say what they want. That’s up to them. They are paid to have an opinion, that’s what they are paid to do. I don’t have a view [when asked about his views on the dismissal]” Jonny Bairstow told Sky Sports Cricket.


Bairstow smashed a whirlwind 99 not-out on the 3rd day of the Manchester Test to give England a decisive lead. This was, after he showed improved glove work in the first in the first innings.

He took a one-handed diving catch off Chris Woakes to send Mitch Marsh packing, but in all fairness, him being wrong-footed contributed to the theatre of that catch.

Jonny has struggled behind the wickets throughout the Ashes, dropping vital catches in each of the first 3 Tests, and one of the major reasons has been his slow footwork. When asked if the lack of game-time in the build-up to the Ashes has contributed to his struggles, he responded in affirmation. However, Bairstow also admitted that given the fact that he is coming off such a lengthy layoff and a surgery, he is satisfied with where he is at the moment.

‘’I think it's the lack of overs. I’m still only 10 months post surgery. When I talk to my surgeon he says, I’m surprised you are walking and running, nevermind play a professional sport. I’m delighted where I’m at’’ he added.

Meanwhile, England have taken complete control of the 4th Test in Manchester. They are still leading the Aussies by 162 runs and require another 6 wickets to level the ledger 2-2.