Bairstow to get his chance after Roy struggles again

England are set to drop Jason Roy in favour of Jonny Bairstow for today’s Champions Trophy semi-final against Pakistan in Cardiff.

Captain Eoin Morgan declined to confirm the switch, citing tournament protocol to resist divulging his team before the toss.

It was inconceivable, however, on the evidence of England’s morning net session that the out-of-form Roy would remain in situ after his run of low scores caught up with him.

Bairstow, right, England’s Test wicketkeeper, was among the first to bat, while Roy was left to throw in the big hits from the outfield and had time for a long chat with coach Trevor Bayliss in front of the boundary hoardings.

Morgan was previously adamant on several occasions, since England began their campaign just under two weeks ago, that Roy would stay in position alongside Alex Hales at the top of the order come what may.

After the Surrey batsman’s miserable form extended to 51 runs in eight innings with his latest failure in the weekend win over Australia at Edgbaston, it appears the captain has changed his mind – even if he declined to confirm it at his pre-match press conference. Morgan came closest to doing so when he said: “There’s a chance we could make a change.”

Many of his subsequent answers provided significant indication that it will be B air stow who is asked to face the new ball against Pakistan left-armers Mohammad Amir and Junaid Khan.

“Obviously, we won’t announce the team until the toss,” he added.

“I mentioned after the last game that we’re getting to the business end of the tournament and we need to produce results.

“So it’s important that tomorrow we pick what we feel is our best XI to win the tournament.”

Morgan praised Bairstow, saying: “I think his allaround ability is as good as we have in this squad. But as I’ve mentioned before, it’s a very difficult team to get into, and you’ve just got to wait for that chance.” Bairstow has no international pedigree, however, as an opener. Even so, following his career-best for Yorkshire at the top of the order last month, Morgan said: “I’d have no worries if he has to open the batting... if Jonny does get the opportunity, I’m sure he’ll take it with both hands.”

Mentioning no names, he added: “I back all my players. I see the best in them, and I believe in them a huge amount.

“Getting to this stage of the tournament, we need results – and if that means somebody misses out, it’s unfortunate. But, for the team’s sake, we need to get results. We want to win this tournament.”