Jonny Bairstow primed for England Test bow (From York Press)

Jonny Bairstow primed for England Test bow

9:05am Monday 14th May 2012 in Sport

YORK’S Jonny Bairstow is celebrating his maiden call-up to the England Test cricket squad.

The 22-year-old Yorkshire ace one of a 13-man squad for Thursday’s first Investec Test against the West Indies at Lord’s, can expect to bat at number six if selected.

That is highly likely in the absence of Ravi Bopara, who suffered a thigh injury two days ago.

Bairstow, who has played in six one-day internationals and six Twenty20s for England, is the only player among the 13 yet to be capped at Test level. If selected, Bairstow will emulate his late father, David, who played four Tests for his country between 1979 and 1981.

National selector Geoff Miller said: “He is an exciting young player who now has an opportunity to experience the Test environment.”