Jonny Bairstow: “Naturally you’re going to miss a player of Ben’s ability and stature”
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Wicketkeeper-batsman Jonny Bairstow has admitted that all-rounder Ben Stokes’ absence from the Ashes squad will hurt England during the series.
Stokes was withdrawn from the side as he waits to hear whether he will be charged with actual bodily harm following an alleged street fight outside a nightclub in Bristol.
To make matters worse, pace bowler Steven Finn, who was named as Stokes’ replacement, has been ruled out of the Ashes after suffering a knee injury. Finn has since been replaced by Tom Curran, who has yet to make his Test debut.
“Naturally you’re going to miss a player of Ben’s ability and stature,” Bairstow told Sky Sports. “When you have someone who bowls and bats and catches and fields in the way that he does it is a huge part of a side in any world cricket eleven.
“We’re very fortunate to have guys that are around that have the capabilities of stepping up.”
Even though is seems likely that Stokes will play no part in the Ashes, Bairstow is confident that England have what it takes to retain the coveted urn.
“I think we’ve got a good chance. We’ve got players with a mix of experience and excitement,” the 28-year-old said. “The experience that some players have got from winning and losing an Ashes series in Australia will stand them in good stead.
“It will be fine margins but if we do the basics well like batting, bowing and catching then you’ve done all you can, and if that’s not good enough on the day then fair play but we’re happy with the way our preparation has gone.”