Jonny Bairstow points to the trend that wicket keepers are selected more for runs
During the 90s decade, it was clear that the main reason behind the selection of a wicketkeeper in the team is to take catches behind the stumps. That was because if a keeper ensures that he takes all the catches, then that can make the team win even more easily. However, lately, we have seen a change in this mindset. The ‘wicketkeeper batsman’ term basically means an individual who can keep the wickets really well, and at the same time, he can bat a bit. Now it looks like the trend has changed. Especially in the England team, after the selection of Jonny Bairstow as a wicket keeper.
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Selection of Jonny Bairstow over Ben Foakes
Recently Jonny Bairstow has been selected as the main wicketkeeper for the English team. Questions have been raised that Ben Foakes should have been selected. However, Bairstow’s batting average is far better than the average of Ben Foakes. But there is no doubt about the fact that Ben Foakes is one of the best keepers in the world currently.
How did this trend start?
This trend started with the rise of Adam Gilchrist as a wicket-keeping batsman. He was certainly the best wicketkeeper of his era, and at the same time, he was also a great batsman. At no.7 in Test Cricket, he was averaging close to 50. He had the ability to change the course of the match single-handedly. However, still, it was not Gilchrist’s batting, it was his wicket-keeping ability because of which he was selected for the team.
Unconventional wicketkeeping approach by England?
It looks like England is trying to prove itself by doing something completely different. They are using the Bazball technique to score quick runs and put pressure on the bowlers. However, they have not received any benefit till now because of that.
On the other hand, they have selected Bairstow as a full-time keeper, and he has missed out on some important catches in the Ashes.
Even after suffering by not selecting a Wicket Keeping batsman, and using the Bazball technique. England seems to ignore the results. However, Australia has ensured to stick to the traditional approach, and they are doing extremely well because of that.
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