Jonny Bairstow makes interesting remarks on the Dharamsala pitch

Middle-order batter Jonny Bairstow commended the groundsmen for their excellent work ahead of the final Test between England and India. Jonny Bairstow also admired the scenic beauty of the Dharamsala venue, describing it as one of the most picturesque in the world.

The fifth Test of the ongoing series is set to be held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala, starting on Thursday, March 7. Both teams will compete for 12 World Test Championship (WTC) points, as the series winner is already decided.

Dharamsala, before the upcoming match, has only hosted a single Test previously, which was a series-deciding encounter between India and Australia. In that match, Team India emerged victorious against Australia, clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) in 2017.

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One Of The Most Picturesque Venues In The World – Jonny Bairstow

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Jonny Bairstow mentioned that the pitch for the upcoming game had been previously used in a Ranji Trophy match.

“It’s a used pitch from the Ranji Trophy last month… let’s see. Ground staff have done an amazing job with the pitch considering the weather we have had here,” Bairstow said.

“They have done a great job with the outfield here in Dharamsala. Looks good. The ground is one of the most picturesque venues in the world,” he added.

Dharamshala, situated at an elevation of 1457 meters above sea level, stands as a highly coveted destination within the country. Snow-capped mountains and meandering streams surround the venue, enhancing its natural allure.

There Might Be A Surprise Barbecue – Jonny Bairstow

Bairstow humorously mentioned the possibility of a “surprise barbecue” from the team to mark his milestone of 100 Test caps. He acknowledged the emotional significance of reaching this milestone, expressing gratitude for the achievement.

“Playing 100 Tests means a hell of a lot. There might be a surprise barbecue from the team… I am joking,” Bairstow said.

Bairstow is poised to become the 17th English cricketer to reach the milestone of 100 Test matches. Having debuted in 2012, the Yorkshire batter has scored 5974 runs in 99 Test matches at a decent average of 36.43, featuring 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries.

Have Been Feeling Good – Jonny Bairstow

Jonny Bairstow revealed his consistent efforts, stating that he has remained mentally prepared and focused throughout the series, despite the unfavorable outcomes.

“I have been feeling good, but runs haven’t come. I have been in the zone every game in the series so far,” Bairstow further said.

The 34-year-old batter entered the series with high expectations but has failed to meet them. Bairstow has amassed only 170 runs across eight innings at an average slightly above 21, with a highest score of 38.

In the ongoing Test series, only Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett, and Joe Root from the England team have achieved centuries, while Ben Foakes and Bairstow are yet to reach a half-century. Despite leading the team, Ben Stokes has also struggled to make significant scores.

Also read: Was MS Dhoni the best in India, says David Lloyd as he backs Jonny Bairstow ahead of 100th Test