"I've got other things that I watch on TV" - Jonny Bairstow responds to streaming episodes of 3rd season of The Test
England keeper-batter Jonny Bairstow has denied streaming any episode of the third season of The Test that pertains to the 2023 Ashes series' flashpoint. However, the Yorkshire cricketer reckons the incident had a positive impact on England.
The flashpoint occurred on the final day of the 2nd Ashes Test at Lord's as Bairstow ducked a bouncer and walked out of the crease casually. Alex Carey threw the ball from behind the crease and hit the stumps, with the third umpire ruling it out. The Australian players were heckled by the members for their appeal.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024 contest against Australia, the 34-year-old stated that he has other things to watch on TV than The Test. He also suggested that England had a psychological hold over Australia following that incident.
As quoted by ESPN Cricinfo, Bairstow stated:
"I've not seen any of it to be quite honest with you. I've got other things that I watch on TV, I don't need to sit and watch that in my hotel room. You see enough cricket when you're involved in it day to day and playing it. But I think that post that event, the way in which we as a side reacted to that was a real positive. You look at the results after that thing that happened at Lord's and I actually think that we finished that series a lot stronger than Australia did."
Australia overcame a Ben Stokes' special to win the Lord's Test on day 5 amid the crowd booing. However, England dominated the remaining matches and the series eventually ended 2-2, with Australia retaining the urn.
"We know we've got to win more games than we lose in tournament cricket" - Jonny Bairstow
With the game against Scotland getting washed out, England have a must-win game against Australia on Saturday. Jonny Bairstow remained unfazed whatever the outcome is, as he explained:
"It doesn't derail us either way. We know we've got to win more games than we lose in tournament cricket. A win puts you in a position in the group which is obviously more favourable but the other two games after this are must-win games anyway. But it would be good for momentum and confidence."
The England bowlers were ineffective against Scotland as they conceded 90 off 10 overs, while failing to pick up a solitary wicket, before the match was washed out.