Burns backs school pal and opening partner Roy to shine
Rory Burns has backed Jason Roy to shine on his England Test debut, hailing his old school pal as one of the most naturally talented batsmen he has played with.
Fresh from his key role in England’s World Cup-winning squad, Roy will make his long-format debut against Ireland in this week’s fourday Test at Lord’s. Roy will open with his Surrey captain Burns. The duo both attended Whitgift School.
“You’d be hard-pushed to find a more naturally talented batsman than Jason,” said Burns, five weeks younger than Roy, 29. “Even growing up as a kid you saw Jason hit the ball, strike the ball and do things other kids couldn’t do.
“Over the last couple of years you’ve seen him rein it in, understand his game a bit more and sort of piece it all together. Hopefully he can keep on doing that and he can translate his white-ball form into red ball.
“I’ve known Jason since he was 10, so to stride out in a Test match with him will be a pretty cool feeling.”
Roy is set to be among three debutants for the one-off Test.
Somerset’s Lewis Gregory and Warwickshire’s Olly Stone are poised to be among England’s bowling attack as James Anderson continues to struggle with a calf injury.
For Burns, the Surrey opener will be looking to lock down his place ahead of the forthcoming Ashes series.
Burns said: “Like most the guys that are coming in and in amongst it you’ve got to try andcementaplaceintheside.
“It is one Test before the Ashes, so if you put your hand up and score some runs you know that you’re going to be there or thereabouts come next week.”