‘Absolute joke’: Jonny Bairstow slams ECB decision to ax youngster George Hill for England Lions

Jonny Bairstow (Image credit: ECB) Former England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow has slammed England and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for leaving Yorkshire all-rounder George Hill out of the latest England Lions squad.Bairstow believes Hill’s performances and ability to contribute in all departments deserve an opportunity at international level.The 25-year-old has been overlooked for both the T20 and 50-over squads to face West Indies A in St Kitts and Nevis in November. Bairstow, who played alongside Hill in Yorkshire, expressed his frustration via Instagram Stories on Friday.“What does (George Hill) have to do? Average 18 with 48 wickets and 750 runs @ 34! England are hardly blessed with people who can swing the ball, bat well and be a jet setter in the field!” He wrote. “An absolute joke!”Bairstow, who represented England between 2011 and 2024, highlighted Hill’s all-round skills, including his ability to take wickets, contribute runs and perform well in the field.Hill made his first-class debut in 2020 and maintained a batting average of 31 in the format. He also took 178 wickets at an average of 21 runs. However, his numbers in ODI and T20 cricket were less impressive.The Yorkshire all-rounder has previously earned a call-up to the England Lions squad for May 2025 but has not been named in any of the latest white-ball squads.

England Lions prepare for West Indies A

England Lions are scheduled to play three T20 matches and five 50-over matches against West Indies A in November. The squads are made up of several young players, including Rehan Ahmed, Ben McKinney, Thomas Rew and James Rew.Hill’s omission has drawn attention to the selectors’ decision, with Bairstow making it clear he believes the all-rounder’s performances should earn him a place in the squads.