'Hass' is class says Jonny Bairstow as overseas star named in Championship squad
JONNY BAIRSTOW has hailed the impact of Pakistan overseas signing Hassan Ali who is set to make his Championship debut for Yorkshire.
The captain has spoken warmly of a man who has been a big hit with the ball in the Vitality Blast.
Hassan is Yorkshire’s leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 11 at an average of 10.36.
The 31-year-old has been named in a 13-man squad for Friday’s Championship match against Warwickshire at Scarborough, with Australian batsman Sam Whiteman poised to return after injury.
“Look, he’s got a wealth of knowledge and he’s high-class,” said Bairstow of Hassan.
“His character as well - we’re lucky to have been able to get him in.
“Having played against him quite a few times, I know how good he is, but when you put him in different scenarios and situations, you really see the class come through and his standards, too. It’s been great to have him on board.”
Pressed on his skills, Bairstow added: “He’s certainly quick enough. But I think it's just the deception of his slower balls, and just how he formulates and goes about his over, to be honest with you.
“You're always guessing as to what he's going to bowl, because he's got three or four different balls - and that’s not even including the bumper, which is slippery enough.”
Yorkshire (from): Lyth, Luxton, Whiteman, Wharton, Revis, Bairstow (captain), Hill, Bess, Hassan Ali, Cliff, White, Moriarty, Bean.