Alec Stewart backs Jason Roy to transition to Test opening role
Roy has scored seven hundreds in 73 one-day internationals.
Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart is convinced Jason Roy can make a successful transition from one-day to Test opener for England.
Roy is in contention to be promoted to the top of the order to partner county team-mate Rory Burns for this year’s Ashes series against Australia with Keaton Jennings’ place under threat.
The 28-year-old has been a star of England’s one-day team and could make his Test debut against Ireland in July in an audition for the summer’s main event.
“I don’t see it as a big issue for him and he’d cope with the stepping stone up to Test cricket.
“The Australia attack is a challenging attack, but Jason’s method is a solid one. He’s a good stroke player and a good hitter of the ball, but he can defend well too, which you have to be able to do.
“His first red-ball innings could therefore be against Ireland in a Test match, assuming he has a good World Cup.”
Surrey are the reigning Specsavers County Championship champions and Stewart insists they will have to step up a gear if they are to retain their crown.
“The message we’ve given the boys is that if we’re as good as last year then that’s OK, but we’ve got to be better,” Stewart said.
“Previously we were the hunters but now we’re the hunted. Everyone will be trying to catch us up through hard work and by trying to improve, so we want to keep that gap.
“That’s easier said than done because of a lot of other counties have strengthened. Notts will have Stuart Broad available for a decent amount before the Ashes starts.
“Essex have Alastair Cook – having him available all season is like having a world-class signing so they’ll be stronger again.
“If you look at our squad, then everyone is good enough to play in the first team.
“There will be injuries and loss of form and we’re trying to have enough bowling stock so that we can rest and rotate.
“We don’t want to bowl people into the ground, which may create injuries.”
