Behind the Timbers
In the build up to the World Cup and the Ashes there has been uncertainty surrounding the selection of wicket-keepers. It is important to acknowledge the fortune England have with all three possibilities Buttler, Bairstow and Foakes more than capable with the bat. But this trend of wicket-keeper batsman wasn't always the case. Sides used to opt for a more specialist 'keeper who would bat at 8 or 9. Great players like Bob Taylor and Alan Knott played for England during 70s and 80s who were excellent glovemen whilst Alec Stewart was possibly the first class batsman with the gloves. We have Adam Gilchrist and the advent of One Day cricket to blame for the paradigm shift in a wicket-keeper's place in the team. His aggressive and powerful style turned the wicket-keeper from a fielding specialist to an integral batsman through big powerplay hitting in limited overs and counter attacking from 7 in Test Matches. England will definitely pick Buttler such is his talent and proven a...