Table of Contents
- Jonny Bairstow reflects on frustrations and doubts during his rehabilitation period
- Bairstow questions if he would ever return to competitive cricket
- The batter makes a resounding comeback with a strong innings in a second XI match
England’s star batter and wicketkeeper, Jonny Bairstow, has opened up about his challenging rehabilitation period following a golf accident in September 2022. Bairstow expressed his frustrations during the recovery process and questioned if he would ever be able to return to playing cricket.
Jonny Bairstow Opens Up About Doubts and Resilience During Rehabilitation Journey
After months of rehabilitation, the 33-year-old was recently recalled to the 15-member Test squad, set to play against Ireland before the highly anticipated Ashes series in 2023. Reflecting on his recovery, Bairstow admitted that thoughts about his ability to walk, jog, run, and play cricket again crossed his mind. The uncertainty surrounding his return to competitive action weighed heavily on him.
Bairstow shared his concerns, stating, “You wonder whether or not you’ll be able to walk again, jog again, run again, play cricket again. Absolutely, those things do go through your mind. It depends how long you think about them. There are many different things, until you get back to playing, well… you wonder, is it going to feel the same?”
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Acknowledging the challenges of rehabilitation, Bairstow mentioned that there would be minor hurdles such as limps and aches as the body adapts to the trauma it has endured. He emphasized that various body parts, including knees, hips, ankles, and lower back, may require adjustments in movement and functionality.
Bairstow made a resounding comeback to competitive cricket after a 241-day injury layoff. Playing for Yorkshire’s second XI against Nottinghamshire’s second side, he showcased his prowess by scoring a steady 97 off 88 balls. Bairstow also highlighted that he kept wicket for 100 overs during the second XI match, indicating his progress and readiness for the upcoming One-off Test and the Ashes series.
The seasoned batter expressed optimism about his return, stating, “That first second XI game (against Nottinghamshire before his return to 1st XI cricket), I kept 100 overs in the game. The last two Championship games – it’s been building nicely. A day off, train, train, train. It’s been back-to-back, and there hasn’t been any reaction. If it swelled up, you know there’s something wrong. So, it’s positive.”
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