Vaughan concerned Prior’s role is beyond Bairstow

Matt Prior was ruled out of England’s current tour match against the Australian Invitational XI this week with a calf problem, but England remain optimistic that he will be fit in time for the first Test which starts in Brisbane on November 21.

But, if Prior does not recover in time, Bairstow will take his place.

Former Yorkshire opener Vaughan, who led England to their 2005 Ashes win, told BBC Radio 5 Live: “Jonny Bairstow will be fine batting at No 7, but I would worry immensely if he has to keep in a Test match.

“I wouldn’t put him in the top five wicketkeepers in England.”

The 24-year-old has played 12 Test matches for England, but has not kept wicket, and has donned the gloves in just one Twenty20 international for his country, mainly being used as a batsman.

Vaughan, who played 82 Tests for England, added: “I questioned it as soon as the squad was selected. I just don’t think he’s done enough of it to withstand the pressure of an Ashes series keeping wicket. Bairstow is a package that could work in 20-over and 50-over cricket, but in five-day cricket, yes you need someone who can bat, but also to take those important catches.

“He hasn’t done enough for Yorkshire this summer because he has been playing for England.

“He may have to keep in the hottest of pressure zones, the Gabba, in front of 40,000 spectators. The selectors feel Bairstow is the next best, but I would question that.”

Stuart Broad, meanwhile, senses the barbed welcome he was promised in Australia may be waiting for him when he arrives in Brisbane.

He has long been primed for a backlash from Australian crowds after his at times controversial role in England’s 3-0 victory over the old enemy last summer.

Australia coach and former Yorkshire favourite Darren Lehmann famously expressed the hope that Broad goes home “crying” over the treatment he receives in Australia. That was three months ago, and the warnings have kept coming.

From the tone of Broad’s voice, however, it seems he can hardly wait for the “fun” to begin.

“I’m sure it will be a bit livelier at the Gabba, the fans will be having a field day,” he said.

“Yeah, I’d expect a bit more when the stadiums are a bit fuller. It will be good fun.”