Bairstow challenges England to deliver on County promises

JONNY Bairstow has challenged the England hierarchy to make good on their promise to rebuild bridges with the county game, but suggested “the proof is in the pudding”.

- BY RORY DOLLARD

The England and Wales Cricket Board presented the findings of its post-Ashes review at Lord's on Monday, with chief executive Richard Gould and managing director Rob Key laying down their vision for a fresh chapter following their 4-1 thrashing in Australia.

A key part of that involves forging a closer connection with the first-class system, which has at times been treated as a hindrance by the regime.

Yorkshire captain Bairstow, 36, has not played Test cricket since winning his 100th cap in March 2024 and insisted actions would speak louder than words.

"When you say connection, the question you would ask is why have they disconnected in the first place?” the Yorkshire captain said.