Former England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow has strongly criticised England and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for leaving Yorkshire all-rounder George Hill out of the latest England Lions squads.Bairstow believes Hill’s performances and ability to contribute in all departments make him deserving of an opportunity at the international level.The 25-year-old has been overlooked for both the T20 and 50-over squads set to face West Indies A in St Kitts and Nevis in November. Bairstow, who played alongside Hill at Yorkshire, voiced his frustration through Instagram Stories on Friday.“What does [George Hill] have to do!!! Averages 18 with 48 wickets and 750 runs @ 34! England are hardly blessed with people that can swing the ball, bat well and be a jet in the field!” He wrote. “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 has maintained a batting average of 31 in the format. He has also taken 178 wickets at an average of 21 runs. However, his numbers in one-day and T20 cricket have been less impressive.The Yorkshire all-rounder had previously earned a call-up to the England Lions squad in May 2025, but he has not been included in either of the latest white-ball squads.
England Lions prepare for West Indies A
The England Lions are scheduled to play three T20 matches and five 50-over games against West Indies A in November. The squads feature 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 that he believes the all-rounder’s performances should have earned him a place in the squads.
