Bairstow: Triumph like this are reward for tough bubble life
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Stokes fit to captain England against Zimbabwe
2 May 25
England Batsman Jonny Bairstow says victories like England's seven-wicket success over Sri Lanka in Galle are reward for the difficulties of bubble life. Bairstow (35*) shared an unbroken 62-run partnership with debutant Dan Lawrence (21*) to usher England to their victory target of 74 after the tourists had been reduced to 14-3 on day four.
The batsman - recalled to play his first Test in over a year - admitted to finding living in bisoecure bubbles tough when he spoke in the immediate aftermath of England's win in the series opener.
"It's absolutely fantastic. Wins like this make it even more special when you are away from home so much. Bubble life is tough, I am not going to lie about it. It takes its toll. You are going from a hotel to the cricket ground and back to the hotel.” said Bairstow.
The players had to quarantine in their hotel rooms after arriving in Sri Lanka and return negative Covid-19 tests before being allowed to start their pre-test preparations.
“Unfortunately, the guys are not able to see their families, their kids, wives, girlfriends over long periods of time, which is tricky as well," he said.
“I was happy that the Christmas break came round because I think I’d had about six nights at home from the beginning of August until Christmas. I’m not going to lie about it, it’s tough.” he added.
Trying to create a family atmosphere among the players and staff was key, he said, adding that they had spent a lot of time playing video games.
