World Cup T20: Will a freak injury by slipping during golf cost England their World Cup?
A golf game turned into a big shock for England cricket when their star attacking batter Jonny Bairstow slipped in a "freak" accident and injured his lower leg, which got him out of the last test and the T20 World Cup squad
Jonny Bairstow will miss the T20 World Cup after a 'freak' golf injury"Unfortunately, I am going to be unavailable of [sic] games/tours in the immediate future. The reason being is that I have injured my lower leg in a freak accident and it shall need an operation."
He added, "The injury came when I slipped on the golf course this morning. I am gutted and want to wish everyone for this week at The Oval all the best, firstly the boys that are going to Australia for the T20 World Cup. Absolutely gutted! I will be back."
Jonny Bairstow announced the injury a few hours after England Cricket announced the World Cup Squad. After Bairstow got ruled out due to injury, his replacement is yet to be announced.
England's managing director, Rob Key, and interim selectors revealed that Jonny Bairstow was supposed to open along with Skipper Jos Buttler in Australia's upcoming T20 World Cup.
Harsha Bhogle said, "Got to feel for Jonny Bairstow. Freak accident that could happen to anyone, anytime. Big blow for England. Bairstow could have been a game-changer at the #t20worldcup2022."
The pair had a great experience and brought immerse attacking nature. But now, with one pillar gone, finding a replacement that can fill the shoe of Jonny Bairstow without affecting the team's strategy will be crucial.
Phil Salt, who is in the World Cup squad now, has become the first choice for the opening alongside skipper Jos Buttler.
As the England Cricket Board's belief in county players is evident in the World Cup squad, another county opener, Will Jack, is the most likely to be called in as a replacement for Jonny Bairstow.
Jason Roy is left out of the World Cup squad and the upcoming Pakistan tour due to his performance. He has been struggling with his form, has failed consistently in scoring, and has a few fitness concerns. However, he brings in the experience but will not be called into the World Cup squad, irrespective of his experience.
England has announced Ben Duckett as the replacement for the last test match against South Africa, which is levelled at 1-1. The third test match at Oval will probably see Harry Brooks make his test debut.