David Lloyd praises Jonny Bairstow for his unselfishness and game-changing ability ahead of 100th Test

England’s Jonny Bairstow is on the verge of playing his 100th Test match as his team faces India in Dharamshala on March 7. Former cricketer David Lloyd praised Bairstow for his unselfish nature and game-changing abilities.

Bairstow has struggled on the India tour, with only 170 runs in four matches. Despite this, Lloyd commended Bairstow’s style and ability to pressure the opposition. He noted Bairstow’s influence in Tests with an average of 36 and a strike rate of 59.

Lloyd compared Bairstow’s wicketkeeping skills to greats like Adam Gilchrist and Mahendra Singh Dhoni, highlighting his impact in front of the stumps. Bairstow has scored 5974 runs in 99 Tests with 12 centuries and 26 fifties, showcasing his value to the team.

Lloyd acknowledged Bairstow’s mother, Janet, for raising him and his sister well after their father’s passing. He predicted that Bairstow would view his 100th Test as a significant milestone for his family, dedicating the match to his late father and supportive mother.

The upcoming Test in Dharamshala may be a dead rubber, but for Bairstow, it holds personal significance as he honors his family’s legacy in cricket. Lloyd praised Bairstow for following in his father’s footsteps as a resilient No. 7 batter, highlighting his determination and commitment to the game.