England coach Trevor Bayliss has indicated that both Jos Buttler and allrounder Ben Stokes could be selected as specialist batsmen for the first Test of the first Test of the four-match series against Pakistan which will start at the Lord’s on July 14.
Buttler has not played Test match since November when Jonny Bairstow replaced him in the squad, while there have been doubting over Stokes’ bowling fitness as the batting all-rounder continued his recovery from knee surgery following an injury sustained while playing for England against Sri Lanka in May.
In 2015 Test series in South Africa Stokes has proved his worth as a batsman. He has scored 258 against South Africa at Cape Town.
On the other hand, Jos Buttler seems in good touch as he played well in the ODI series against Sri Lanka.
Buttler didn’t get a chance to play a Test match this but Bayliss said after England’s 122 run win in Cardiff, “He could play as a bat, I’m sure … he wouldn’t have any problems at all. I think he could handle it. He’s certainly in contention, that’s for sure.”Talking about Stokes, Bayliss said, “He’s playing the next four-day game (for Durham) as a batsman and might bowl some short spells, depending on how he’s gone in the last few days in the nets. He’s a guy who has made plenty of runs in Test cricket already – he has to be discussed, I’m sure.”
England now have to make one change to their top order following No. 3 Nick Compton’s decision to take a break from cricket after a nightmare Test series against Sri Lanka where England won the series 2-0 at home.
Now England have to make one change in their team to fill the void of Nick.
“Long term, I think Joe Root is our No. 3,” offered Bayliss. “Rooty would have to want to do it – it’s a big change, and he’s done well at No. 4. But my way of thinking is you put your best batter at No. 3.”
England will have another headache when they will take on Pakistan on July 14 as their bowling spearhead James Anderson has been struggling with a stress fracture in the shoulder blade in his bowling arm, and that might let him seat at the bench during the first Test.
“There will be an ongoing assessment between now and the Test, giving him every chance to make himself available,” said Bayliss.
Before the Test series start against Pakistan, England will play their one-off T20 against Sri Lanka in Southampton on Tuesday.