Jonny Bairstow lauded the groundsmen of the HPCA Stadium in Dharamshala for their excellent work in preparing the pitch and outfield ahead of the fifth and final Test match between England and India, starting on March 7, 2024.
Ahead of the game, Bairstow, the England wicketkeeper-batter, expressed his satisfaction with the condition of the pitch, hoping batting and bowling would have an equal role in the game.
Jonny Bairstow said at the press conference ahead of the Dharamshala Test: “It’s a used pitch from the Ranji Trophy last month… let’s see. Ground staff have done an amazing job with the pitch considering the weather we have had here.”
Bairstow added, “They have done a great job with the outfield here in Dharamsala. Looks good. The ground is one of the most picturesque venues in the world.”
The 34-year-old batter will become the 17th Englishman to play 100th Test match and Bairstow joked that there might be a “surprise barbecue from the team” but admitted that he would be emotional.
He noted, “Playing 100 Tests means a hell of a lot.”
Bairstow signed off by saying about his poor form, “I have been feeling good but runs haven’t come. I have been in the zone every game in the series so far.”
(With PTI Inputs)
