From looking like not having much of a chance of getting back into the test team two years ago, Yorkshireman Johnny Bairstow is now one of the first names on the team sheet. The 26-year-old is an excellent middle order batsman who is very reliable whilst also being capable of playing a few shots when he needs to. Bairstow already has 626 test runs in 2016 – a sensational amount for a middle order batsman, whilst his highest innings this year of 167 was at Lord’s which of course is where this first match in the Pakistan series takes place.
The man from Bradford is not only a good batsman, but also a decent wicket keeper. He positions himself well in the line of the ball and has really safe hands. His 34 catches taken in test matches this year is just like his batting – brilliant.
Bairstow’s confidence will be sky high and if he can carry on the sort of form he has shown for England recently then there is no reason why he cannot put in another Man of the Match performance. Many bookies believe he has a good chance and are even valuing him at the same as the likes of Stuart Broad and Alistair Cook, this shows the sort of form Bairstow is in right now. However, at 10Bet he is considered 15/1 shot. Well worth a bet.
See all of today’s tips here.