I wondered if I’d ever walk again
NOW JONNY’S UP FOR FIGHT
JONNY BAIRSTOW is determined to repeat his blistering 2022 batting form after a horrific injury made him fear he might never walk again.
The sight of Bairstow swatting Kiwi, Indian and then South African bowlers to all parts of English Test grounds last year were the defining images of the new Bazball era.
But life took a darker turn following a freak golfing accident that left him with a broken leg and dislocated ankle.
Ten months on and the 33-year-old is fit, refreshed and back in the England fold, firstly for the Test against Ireland and then for a seventh tilt at the Aussies in his 89-cap career.
And even if there is a slight hint of a limp, there is no doubt in his mind that he still retains the confidence gathered from last year.
“There’s been a few low points,” said Bairstow. “You wonder whether or not you’ll be able to walk again, jog again, run, play cricket again.
“Absolutely, those things do go through your mind. People have said, ‘You’re limping.’
“Well I don’t know anyone who has had a major lower leg injury who walks the same as before. There are going to be little limps and aches.
“Now I’m back I’m very excited about what is to come.”
There is a difference, though, since he is returning as England’s wicketkeeper at the expense of Ben Foakes who missed out.
This time he got the “awesome” call from coach Brendon McCullum to tell him he was back in and had the gloves.
But he does have previous in this department too such as in 2016 when he scored a record 1,470 runs and made 70 dismissals.
“That was an amazing year,” he added. “Those are the things you draw upon when people ask if you can do it.
“I’m in a really good place. There’s been some dark times this winter and it’s been tough so to get that phone call was awesome.
“I can absolutely feel for Foakes too. I don’t make the decisions, but I’ve been there.” Meanwhile Jimmy Anderson (inset) is ready to sacrifice his place against Ireland to be fit to face the Aussies. Anderson, who has been a groin strain, said: “I am desperate to be fit for the first Ashes Test. “And if that means missing the Ireland Test, then so be it.”
■ Bairstow was helping launch Radox as an Official Partner of England Cricket. Radox will be keeping cricketers and fans feeling refreshed this summer.