NEW DELHI: Former England captain Alastair Cook has made a strong case for Jonny Bairstow's exclusion from the upcoming Ranchi Test against India, citing a need to shield the player from further disappointment in what has been a challenging series for him.
Cook's comments come in light of Bairstow's underwhelming performance throughout the five-match series, where he has struggled to make an impact with the bat, averaging just 17.00.
Speaking to 'TNT Sport,' Cook expressed his concern for Bairstow's current form and mental well-being, suggesting a break from the relentless pressure of Test cricket in India.
"I'm taking him out of the firing line to protect the player, as I think he's had a tough tour so far and India is a tough place to keep going on the treadmill," Cook said.
He also hinted at a potential return for Bairstow, clarifying that his suggestion does not mark the end of Bairstow's Test career.
In Bairstow's stead, Cook recommended Dan Lawrence, believing that a fresh presence could rejuvenate England's batting lineup. "I'd let Dan Lawrence have a go," he stated, highlighting the importance of bringing in a player unburdened by the series' "debris."
Contrastingly, Michael Atherton, another former England captain, speculated that the team management might persist with Bairstow, given his pivotal role in the team's strategy.
Speaking on the 'Sky Sports Cricket Podcast,' Atherton noted, "(Bairstow) has been so central to this project that I don't see them leaving him out now, at a critical juncture."
With England trailing the series 1-2, the discussion extends beyond batting concerns. Cook also advised resting veteran pacers James Anderson and Mark Wood for the Ranchi Test, with an eye on the final match in Dharamsala, where conditions favor seam bowling.
Advocating for fresh legs, Cook called for Ollie Robinson's inclusion and a Test debut for Gus Atkinson. "The two people I'm bringing in are Ollie Robinson and Gus Atkinson," he elaborated, praising Robinson's control and Atkinson's potential.
Atherton echoed Cook's sentiment on refreshing the bowling lineup, particularly suggesting Robinson could replace Anderson and considering Atkinson for Wood.
(With inputs from PTI)
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