News by “Sana Ullah”
Struggling England batsman Jonny Bairstow seems to be battling to salvage his Test career as he approaches his 100th Test match when the fifth and final encounter against India kicks off in Dharamsala on Thursday.
Bairstow will reach the landmark of 100 Test caps while England, already trailing 3-1 in the series, aim to restore some dignity in the high-altitude and frosty Himalayan hill town.
India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is also set to play his 100th Test, having surpassed 500 Test wickets during the ongoing series.
Reflecting on his impending milestone, Bairstow expressed the significance of the occasion, stating that playing 100 Test matches meant “a hell of a lot” to him.
The 34-year-old, primarily in the team as a specialist batsman, has struggled to make an impact, managing only 170 runs at an average of 21.25 in the series.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan termed Bairstow’s imminent achievement “a great triumph of resilience” but acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his future beyond the 100th Test.
Bairstow, known for his attacking batting style, holds a pivotal position at number five in England’s lineup, crucial to their aggressive approach.
Despite showing glimpses of form in the fourth Test, Bairstow has failed to convert promising starts into substantial scores.
The match in Dharamsala could be significantly influenced by the weather, with forecasts predicting sleet and temperatures dropping as low as 1°C (33.8°F) on Thursday.
India, leading the series 3-1, have dominated at home and will aim to continue their streak, despite the absence of key players like Virat Kohli and the injured KL Rahul.
