Bairstow ready to accept wicketkeeping 'challenge' at Gabba Test if Prior declared unfit

England player Jonny Bairstow has insisted that he is ready to take over the wicketkeeping duties from the injured Matt Prior if Prior is declared unfit to play in the first Test of the winter Ashes series in Brisbane, beginning less than a week later on November 21.

Although Prior, who has played 57 consecutive matches and is just three games away from the record for an England keeper, took a significant step forward in his recovery by doing some light training, Bairstow still has a good chance of being required for the Gabba at least.

According to the Mirror, following a knock of 48 with the bat and a competent display behind the stumps against the Invitational XI, Bairstow said that he is ready and it would be no problem if he finds out at the last moment that he is to replace Prior behind the stumps.

Stating that he feels good after his performance in the last couple of days, Bairstow also said that he feels that he would do a decent job if he replaces Prior at the Gabba as wanting to play is the 'nature of the beast' and he has also been keeping for his county side Yorkshire for the last four years.

Although Bairstow hoped that Prior would be fit enough to play at the Gabba, he, however, said that he is not worried even if he gets a late call-up as it is a part of professional sport and happens all the way through junior and senior cricket.

England will give Prior every chance to make it, but for a keeper nothing could be worse than a calf tear, which will be tested every ball, the report added.