As the enthralling Test series between India and England heading towards its conclusion with the fifth and final Test at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium in Dharamsala, the hosts have already secured an unassailable lead of 3-1. Despite this the significance of the match remains heightened, given the implications it carries for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 rankings.

Milestone moments: Jonny Bairstow’s 100th Test for England

This Test holds profound importance as it marks the 100th Test appearance for two stalwarts of the game – India’s seasoned off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and England’s resilient batter Jonny Bairstow. Bairstow, on the verge of becoming the 17th Englishman to achieve this milestone, will be poised for a memorable outing in Dharamsala.

Bairstow’s rumination: Form, milestone and team banter

With a series that hasn’t been favourable for him, Bairstow took center stage to reflect on reaching the significant 100-Test mark. Amid jokes about a potential surprise barbeque celebration arranged by the team, Bairstow also acknowledged the importance of the occasion and hinted at a possible turning point in his form. In the four matches against India, Bairstow has faced challenges, accumulating 170 runs with an average of 21.25.

“Playing 100 Tests means a hell of a lot. There might be a surprise barbecue from the team… I am joking,” Bairstow was quoted as saying by India Today.

“I have been feeling good, but runs haven’t come. I have been in the zone every game in the series so far,” the 34-year-old added.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: Sanjay Bangar recommends two changes to India’s playing XI for the 5th Test against England in Dharamsala

Acknowledging groundsmen and pitch conditions

In a gracious gesture, Bairstow took a moment to express gratitude to the groundsmen for their efforts in maintaining the pitch, considering the recent hosting of four Ranji Trophy matches at the HPCA stadium in Dharamshala.

“It’s a used pitch from the Ranji Trophy last month… let’s see. Ground staff have done an amazing job with the pitch considering the weather we have had here,” Bairstow concluded.

Also READ: IND vs ENG: Michael Vaughan suggest one key change in England’s playing XI for the Dharamsala Test

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