England veteran batter Jonny Bairstow has been away from international cricket for more than a year. Recently, Bairstow did an exceptional job for Welsh Fire against London Spirit in the sixth game of
The Hundred 2025, played in Cardiff. Chasing 164 runs, the Welsh Fire fell eight runs short but donning the role of opener, Bairstow notched up an unbeaten 86 off just 50. His innings was studded with 12 boundaries (six fours and six maximums). Following this innings, when he spoke to BBC Sport regarding his performance, he was also queried about his England return.
Replying to the question, Jonny Bairstow admitted that his comeback in his national squad is unlikely. “If that comes, that comes, but I think it’s doubtful, judging by the fact that I’ve not heard too much,” said Bairstow. The 35-year-old’s last international appearance was against India in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final, played in Guyana. In the crucial game, he got dismissed on a duck. Discussing his batting numbers in the marquee ICC tournament, he could score only 110 runs in six innings of eight matches at a strike rate of 134.14.
Welsh Fire yet to win their maiden game in The Hundred 2025
With the defeat against London Spirit, Welsh recorded their second loss in the competition. Earlier, Welsh Fire also lost their maiden game of the tournament against Northern Superchargers in Leeds. Welsh will next host Manchester Originals at Sophia Gardens on August 12.
Jonny Bairstow’s Australian opening partner Steven Smith will be expected to utilise his experience and deliver impactful knocks to his side consistently. Against London Spirit, the Aussie could score only three after consuming five balls. Smith and Bairstow are massive figures in Welsh Fire’s side as they have played a lot of competitive cricket in their vast career.
