The intensity of the Ashes rivalry between England and Australia is always at its peak, and the ongoing 2023 series is no different. However, a seemingly innocuous incident involving Jonny Bairstow has set the cricketing world abuzz and ignited tensions between the teams and their fans.
It all happened on Day 5 of the Lord’s Test, with England desperately chasing a daunting target of 371 to level the series. Bairstow’s partnership with Captain Ben Stokes was crucial, but fate had other plans. When Australia’s Cameron Green bowled a bouncer, Bairstow ducked and casually left the crease, assuming the ball was no longer in play. But Australia’s wicketkeeper, Alex Carey, was quick to react, stumping Bairstow and sending him back to the pavilion.
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The controversial dismissal left the English players and fans seething, accusing Australia of disregarding the spirit of cricket with such a dismissal. The incident sparked a heated debate and added fuel to the already fierce rivalry.
In a post-match handshake video shared on social media, Bairstow can be seen exchanging pleasantries with Australian skipper Pat Cummins. However, the English batsman’s stern expression during the handshake suggests his frustration over how his innings ended on that fateful day.
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The series now moves swiftly to the third Test at Headingley, Leeds, with England facing an uphill battle to reclaim the Ashes. They must win all the remaining three Tests to turn the tide in their favor. The Headingley venue holds fond memories for England, as it was here in 2019 when Ben Stokes played a heroic innings, leading his team to a thrilling one-wicket victory against Australia.
Handshakes at the end of Day Five.#LoveLords | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/emaIMKrjNC
— Lord’s Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) July 2, 2023
As the rivalry intensifies and emotions run high, cricket fans eagerly await the action-packed contest between these two cricketing giants in the quest for Ashes glory.
