England's wicket-keeper Jonny Bairstow has received a vote of confidence from captain Ben Stokes and will retain his position behind the stumps for the fourth Ashes Test at Old Trafford.
Bairstow has faced criticism for his performance in the series so far, having dropped seven Australian batters and missed a few stumpings, resulting in over 140 runs conceded. His performance in the third Test at Headingley was particularly underwhelming.
Despite calls for Ben Foakes to take over the wicket-keeping duties, Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum have decided to stick with Bairstow in both batting and keeping roles, as he excelled in the latter during the previous summer.
However, there might be a change in the bowling line-up for the upcoming Test. James Anderson is set to return to the team on his home ground, Old Trafford, after recovering from injury. The veteran fast bowler has expressed his understanding if the team management decides to go in a different direction.
Anderson stated, "They will pick the strongest team to compete with Australia that particular week. I am completely happy with whatever they decide. I know I am not guaranteed to play the next Test and I will completely understand if they want to stick with the winning team. The selection side is out of my hands. I just make sure that I am in a good place and ready to play."
Meanwhile, England is keeping an eye on the fitness of Ollie Robinson, who is battling a back spasm. Robinson is making good progress in his recovery and is expected to be available for selection next week.
In terms of batting options, Dan Lawrence remains the spare batter in the squad, while Josh Tongue is eager to prove himself and secure a spot in the final eleven, depending on the fitness of the bowlers from the Headingley Test.
Mark Wood, who was named the Player of the Match in Leeds, has raised concerns about his long-term availability due to his previous injury. However, Wood, who took seven wickets in the Test, is determined to continue his lightning-fast bowling against the Australians.
The England Men's Fourth Ashes Test Squad: Ben Stokes (captain), Moeen Ali, James Anderson, Jonathan Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Harry Brook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Dan Lawrence, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes, and Mark Wood.
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