Thaindian News

London, Oct 7 (IANS) Newcomer Jonny Bairstow says his getting picked for England was a proud moment for his family and he hopes to live up to the expectations if he gets a chance in the forthcoming ODI series against India.

England are to play five ODIs against India. The first ODI begins in Hyderabad, Oct 14.

Jonny Bairstow’s father David, who kept wickets for Yorkshire and England, committed suicide when Jonny was eight.

Jonny, now a 22-year-old who is preparing to don the gloves in Saturday’s warm-up game against a Hyderabad Cricket Association XI, said his dad’s death made them stronger as a family.

“I have some fantastic memories of him - going out to Barbados and playing on the beach, and playing on the outfield at The Oval,” Bairstow was quoted as saying in the Daily Mail.

“He was a great character and did a lot for the game. Getting picked for England is a very proud moment for the family.”

“Being so young, perhaps it was easier for me. But my mum wasn’t very well and it took a lot of hard work and effort to get everything back on track. We all pulled together and I think that has made us a lot stronger as a family,” Bairstaw said.

Bairstow’s unbeaten 41 off 21 balls to help defeat the Indians in Cardiff last month speeded his inclusion in the side and the youngster will be hoping to get a look in, in next week’s first one-day international against India.

“Cardiff was one innings and I’m well aware of that. I still have my feet on the ground,” he said.

But with first-choice keeper Craig Kieswetter due to join the squad following Somerset’s Champions League campaign in Chennai at the weekend, Bairstow will have to fight hard for a spot as a specialist batsman.