Former England captain Joe Root has called for a sense of calm following the controversial dismissal of Jonny Bairstow in the second Ashes Test at Lord's. However, Root anticipates an intense display from his fellow Yorkshireman as they head into the third Test against Australia, commencing on Thursday.
During the final day of the second Test, Australia's wicketkeeper Alex Carey executed an underarm throw at the stumps after Bairstow had left the crease after ducking a bouncer.
Australia went on to win the match by 43 runs, earning a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.
The crowd's mood swiftly shifted to hostility against the Australian players following the dismissal. Although the act was within the rules, it was widely perceived as contrary to the spirit of the game.
In addition to the on-field tension, members of the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) at Lord's subjected Pat Cummins's team to verbal abuse. Root emphasized the importance of maintaining boundaries and refraining from crossing a line in such circumstances.
"Support England," he said. "I think that's the most important thing, that you come in to support your nation, doesn't need to go beyond that. It shouldn't ever go beyond that."
Root expected wicketkeeper-batter Bairstow would be fired up for the third Test.
"Jonny thrives off things like this," Root said. "I'm sure he will want to entertain the local crowd. I think it is set up nicely for him, but you have still got to go and do it.
"I don't think he took it great..."He felt a bit hard done by. I don't think anyone will be leaving their crease (this week)."
(With agency inputs)
