DEREK PRINGLE

@derekpringle

Jonny Bairstow’s future as a Test batsman was given a boost when Ashley Giles’ backed him to regain his Test place but Giles’ faith was not mirrored by the usual signpost to these things, central contracts - Bairstow having been awarded one for white-ball cricket but not red.
Giles is the director of England men’s cricket and needed to sound a conciliatory note, his obvious desire being to let someone who has played 70 Tests down gently and with optimism, despite the runes suggesting otherwise.
But where did it go wron...